Here is what I aim to write to my boss today on Teams first thing this morning:

Hi Boss's name,

To follow up on your private message to me yesterday—I took responsibility for the mistake and addressed it directly with (her boss's name) in the group chat, because I believed that was the right and transparent thing to do.

While I appreciate you acknowledging the effort I’ve put into the data review, the tone of your message—especially the framing around how things “reflect” or appear—felt more like a punitive correction than supportive feedback.

To be honest, this type of punitive correction has been a pattern. I’m always open to feedback and growing, and I take accountability seriously—but I’d appreciate it being delivered in a way that supports growth rather than sounding like a reprimand after the fact.

I’ve taken your points on board and will apply them moving forward. Thanks for understanding.