I’m overthinking this prompt—how do I quickly choose my top 3 purposes for journaling without getting stuck?

Give yourself five minutes. 1) Brain-dump: list why you open your journal (e.g., calm racing thoughts, plan work, process feelings, track habits, self-compassion). 2) Cluster: group similar items (emotions, decisions, patterns). 3) Pick one verb from each cluster that matters today. Examples: “process emotions,” “clarify decisions,” “spot patterns.” If you’re torn, ask: Which three, if supported, would make this week easier to carry? Capture the rest as a “parking lot” for later—today is about usefulness, not perfection.

What would 3 purposes look like if my stress is about the future and work pressure?

Use purposes that meet your current mental load. Example set: 1) Process uncertainty: name specific fears and what’s actually known today. 2) Clarify next steps: list the smallest next task you can see, not the entire plan. 3) Build self-trust: record one thing you handled well recently. Starters: “I’m uncertain about… What I do know is…,” “The next visible step is…,” “Evidence I can handle hard things: ….” Keep it simple and honest—these purposes guide attention, not outcomes.

How do I structure today’s entry in the Stoic app around my 3 purposes?

Try a three-part layout: • Purpose 1: Name it. Why it matters today (1–2 lines). Prompt: write 3–5 sentences. • Purpose 2: Name it. Why it matters today. Prompt: 3–5 sentences. • Purpose 3: Name it. Why it matters today. Prompt: 3–5 sentences. Example purposes: “regulate emotions,” “reduce overthinking,” “notice patterns.” Close with one reflection line: “What I want to remember from this entry is….” In Stoic, keep entries short and consistent—showing up daily is the practice.

Journaling Idea - On Journaling.

What are the 3 most important purposes you use journaling to work on?

These do not have to be elegant or well thought out, they can be as intuitive or analytical as you want.

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Zach Beauvais

Published on

Apr 6, 2022

Journal in Stoic

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Zach Beauvais

Writing & User Experience

Zach helps stoic design experiences for mental and emotional wellness, creating guided meditations, mindful walks, and journaling prompts rooted in Stoic philosophy. He also serves as Marketing Director at Cornell’s ILR School, where he helps leaders clarify their purpose and turn ideas into content that engages students, faculty, and collaborators. With over 15 years of experience in storytelling, community building, and content strategy, Zach brings both creativity and clarity to his work. Outside of writing and strategy, he enjoys photography, making coffee, and carving spoons, bowls, and cups from green wood.

What are the 3 most important purposes you use journaling to work on?

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