How should I handle my clumsy mistake?

We all make mistakes and for the most part, it’s not a huge issue. We apologize and move on. However, there are those times when we are trying to make a good impression and display the very best of ourselves and something unexpected happens. Perhaps it’s our fault and maybe not. Here is a perfect example of a person doing her best but...well...read on.

Dear Polite One,

I'm somewhat clumsy. I tend to bump into the corner of tables and frequently knock over glasses of water. Recently, I knocked over a glass of water during a business meal with my boss. I was mortified! He didn't get wet, thankfully. I quickly sopped up the water with my napkin and apologized. But I was a nervous wreck throughout the entire meal, even though he told me that it was all right. How should I handle mistakes like this?

Hide the knives!

Dear Hide the knives,

This was an accident. It happens to all of us, especially when we're nervous. Many of us would be at an important meal such as this.

The best approach is to treat it lightly. Apologize, and then, perhaps, say something about hoping that spilling water is good luck. Sopping up the water as you are joking is very appropriate as well.

Best,
The Polite One

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