How can I use this prompt to figure out what’s mine to carry and what’s theirs?

Try the dichotomy of control lens. In your Stoic journal, split the page into two columns: 1) In my control: my words, tone, time, availability, empathy. 2) Not in my control: their feelings, choices, outcomes. For each situation, list one concrete supportive action in column 1, and one thing you’ll release from column 2. Close with a one-line boundary: “I can listen for 20 minutes and share resources; I can’t fix this for them.” Revisit after the interaction and note what stayed in your column.

What are some boundary scripts I can write and practice so I’m supportive without absorbing their emotions?

Draft three short scripts in your journal: 1) Time boundary: “I want to give you my full attention for 15 minutes now; if we need more, let’s plan a time tomorrow.” 2) Role boundary: “I can listen and reflect what I hear; I’m not the best person to solve this part.” 3) Emotional boundary: “I care about you, and I also need to pause here to take care of myself.” Write when you’ll use each, then rehearse by reading them out loud. In Stoic, reflect on how each script felt and tweak phrasing to fit your voice.

I feel guilty or fear rejection when I set boundaries—how do I journal through that and still show up with care?

Name the feeling first: “Guilt shows up as…; Fear says…” Then reframe with values: “I set this boundary to sustain compassion, not to withdraw it.” Write an if-then plan: “If guilt spikes after I say no, then I’ll take 5 breaths, remind myself of my why, and send one supportive check-in later.” End with a compassion pair: one line for them (“May they find support”) and one for you (“May I honor my limits”). Use Stoic to note small boundary wins so your brain links limits with care, not rejection.

Journaling Idea - On Minding the Business.

Can you balance being supportive with not taking on someone else’s emotional baggage?

What healthy boundaries have you set or can you set to protect your own peace of mind?

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Natalia Łobodzińska

Published on

Aug 10, 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.

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