How do I journal about a “better life” daydream without shaming myself or spiraling into overthinking?

Start by normalizing the daydream—it’s a signal, not a flaw. 1) Name the scene: Where are you, what are you doing, who’s there? 2) Extract the values: What qualities does this version highlight (freedom, creativity, belonging)? 3) Apply the Stoic lens: What parts are within your control today (skills, routines, conversations)? 4) Choose one 10–15 minute action that reflects those values now. 5) End with gratitude for one thing you already have that supports the same value. This turns fantasy into direction without self-criticism. You can capture this flow in the Stoic app to keep it brief and focused.

What should I write if my daydream leaves me feeling empty or stuck afterward?

Use the feeling as a clue. Try three prompts: 1) “The unmet need beneath this daydream is…” (connection, autonomy, rest, mastery, novelty). 2) “Evidence I’ve already moved toward this value before is…” (even small wins). 3) “One compassionate next step I can take in the next 24 hours is…” Keep it tiny and within your control. If fear of failure shows up, do a quick outcome sweep: worst, best, and most likely outcome, then one action that would still be worth doing even under the most likely outcome.

How can I balance romanticizing my future with appreciating my current life when I answer this prompt?

Try a Both/And entry: Two columns—Keep and Seek. Under Keep, list 3 things you value in your current life; under Seek, list 3 qualities from the daydream. For each Seek item, write one present-moment behavior that hints at it (e.g., Seek: adventure → take a new route, plan a low-stakes outing). End with a 60-second savor: write one sensory detail from today you’re grateful for. This keeps aspiration grounded in appreciation. Use Stoic as your daily check-in to repeat this brief structure and notice patterns over time.

Journaling Idea - On Romanticizing.

When was the last time you caught yourself daydreaming about a “better” version of your life?

Did it inspire you, or leave you wanting more? Why do you think that is?

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Natalia Łobodzińska

Published on

Jul 29, 2025

Journal in Stoic

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Natalia Łobodzińska

Head of Content at stoic.

Natalia oversees all content inside the Stoic app — from guided journals to daily prompts. She works closely with therapists and writers to make sure every word helps users reflect and grow. She also manages translations to keep the experience thoughtful and consistent across languages.

When was the last time you caught yourself daydreaming about a “better” version of your life?

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