The Repair Script — LeaderNess
LeaderNess

The Repair Script

You will fail. You just need to recover.
Module 3: Leading through Emotions

Your answers are saved automatically in this browser. Print or save as PDF once you're done.

How to use this tool

First, describe the situation you want to repair as honestly as you can. Then draft your repairing sentence using the four-part script. Finally, get ready to share it — out loud, with the actual person. Repairing only works when it's spoken, not just written.

You will fail,
you just need to recover

Apologies

Attempt to shut down a conversation.

"I'm sorry I yelled. Okay, can we move on?"

Repairing

Establish a close connection after a moment when someone feels hurt, misunderstood, or alone.

01Reflect

Share that you've been reflecting.

"I keep thinking about our conversation earlier today when we were in the project review."

02Acknowledge

Acknowledge the other person's experience.

"I know I reacted defensively. I realize it must have been frustrating to feel unheard."

03Alternative Action

State what you would do differently next time.

"I wish I had paused and understood your perspective first."

04Curiosity

Connect through curiosity now that things feel safer.

"Could we restart that conversation? I'd love to hear your viewpoint and find a way forward together."
Step 1

Describe the Situation

Be as honest and specific as you can. No one else needs to see this.

What happened that you want to repair?
How did you feel?
What triggered you?
What was the impact on you?
What was the impact of your reaction on the other person?
Step 2

Write Your Repairing Sentence

The "Change the Ending" Repair Script — one line for each part.

01
Reflect
State the objective facts.
02
Acknowledge
Name the impact without caveats.
03
Alternative Action
State what you'd do differently.
04
Curiosity
Invite them back into connection.
Step 3

Now It's Your Turn to Share

Reading it here is practice. Repairing happens when you say it to them.

  • Choose a moment when you both have time and won't be interrupted.
  • Say it out loud to yourself once before the real conversation.
  • Keep your tone warm and unhurried — the words matter less than the sincerity.
  • Let there be silence after you finish. Give them room to respond.
  • This is a repair, not a performance — it's okay if it doesn't come out perfectly.
Your Repair Script
Assembled from what you wrote above.
Ready to say out loud
✓ Saved