When people feel guilty but don't want to admit it directly, they may use various indirect or defensive statements to avoid confronting their feelings. Here are some examples of things people might say when they feel guilty but are not ready to admit it:
- "I did what I thought was best at the time."
- "Nobody is perfect, and we all make mistakes."
- "I didn't mean to hurt anyone; it was unintentional."
- "It's not that big of a deal; you're overreacting."
- "I can't believe you're still thinking about that; it's in the past now."
- "I was just trying to help; I didn't think it would turn out this way."
- "You're making too much out of this; it's not worth dwelling on."
- "I have my reasons, and you wouldn't understand."
- "I'm sorry you feel that way, but I can't change the past."
- "Let's just forget about it and move on."
These statements often serve as deflections or attempts to minimize the impact of their actions and avoid taking responsibility for their guilt. It's important to remember that acknowledging guilt and taking responsibility for one's actions is a vital step in personal growth and building healthier relationships. Encouraging open communication and fostering a safe space for people to express their feelings can lead to more honest and authentic interactions.