How do I journal about that split second after I drop something without spiraling into “if only” thoughts?

Start with the scene, not the story. 1) Sensory snapshot: What did you see, hear, and feel in your body the moment it slipped? 2) Name the urge: “I wanted to rewind time.” 3) Control check: In one line, note what was controllable (my grip next time, how I respond) versus uncontrollable (gravity, that it’s already falling). 4) Close with a letting‑go sentence: “What’s done is done; I can choose my next move.” In Stoic, write this as a short sequence of 2–4 sentences to keep it grounded and brief.

What Stoic principle should guide this prompt about dropping something and wishing I could change it?

Use the dichotomy of control. Journal in two columns or paragraphs: • Not up to me: the object’s fall, others’ reactions, the past second. • Up to me: my breath, words I use, cleanup, attitude. Add one line of voluntary acceptance: “I allow what has already happened.” Then add one intentional action you can take next. This keeps the focus on response, not rewind.

I replay small mistakes (like spilling coffee at work). How can I use this prompt to ease perfectionism without beating myself up?

Try a three-layer entry: 1) Facts only: “I dropped the mug. It shattered.” 2) Impact: “I felt heat in my chest and embarrassment.” 3) Story rewrite: swap harsh self-talk for a calm narrator: “A human error occurred; I responded by cleaning up and moving on.” End with one micro-learning (e.g., “Place mug farther from edge”) and one kindness (e.g., “Everyone drops things”). Save it in Stoic so you can revisit the balanced version, not the replay.

Journaling Idea - On What You Can’t Change.

Can you describe the moment after you accidentally drop something?

Have you ever had the feeling that you could change the outcome for a few moments after you realize it’s about to hit the ground?

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Zach Beauvais

Published on

Feb 28, 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.

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