Use AI to check if your writing accidentally sounds like you're blaming someone or making excuses.
Sometimes when you're explaining a delay, a mistake, or why something didn't go as planned, your message can unintentionally sound defensive or like you're pointing fingers — even when that's not what you mean. Before you hit send on anything that involves explaining a problem or setback, paste your draft into ChatGPT and ask it to flag any language that might come across as blame-shifting or excuse-making. AI can spot phrases that sound like you're deflecting responsibility, even if you didn't realize it. You'll get back a quick audit of how your message might land, plus suggestions for rewriting it in a way that's honest, professional, and takes ownership without sounding like you're making excuses.
Try this prompt today
“Read this message I'm about to send. Does any part of it sound like I'm blaming someone else, making excuses, or being defensive? Flag any phrases that might come across that way and suggest how to rewrite them so I sound accountable and professional: [paste your draft here]”
March 13, 2026
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