How can I journal about tough love without spiraling into shame?

Start by separating how it was said from what was said. In your Stoic entry, make two short lists: 1) Impact: how the words made you feel (name the emotions); 2) Signal: any specific behaviors or patterns the feedback pointed to. Then add a third section: Control—what’s within your choice (attitude, effort, one habit) versus what isn’t (their tone, past events). Close with one compassionate line to yourself, e.g., “I can learn without attacking myself.” This keeps the reflection grounded and growth-focused.

What if the criticism came from someone I love and I can’t tell if it helped or hurt me?

Use intent vs. impact. In your journal, write two brief paragraphs: “Impact” (what landed, what stung, what feels true or not) and “Possible Intent” (what they may have hoped for, even if it missed). Next, write a balanced takeaway: one thing you might experiment with and one boundary you’ll keep. If it still feels confusing, write a short unsent reply—what you wish you could say calmly. Stoic can hold these drafts so you can revisit them after emotions settle.

How do I turn harsh feedback into growth without feeding my perfectionism?

Strip feedback to a single observable behavior. In Stoic, try a three-line check-in: 1) Fact: the exact quote or behavior mentioned; 2) Choice: one small action you could test this week; 3) Safeguard: a self-kind standard (e.g., “Progress over polish,” “Try once, review, rest”). End with a Stoic-style reflection: what’s up to me (effort, practice) vs. not up to me (others’ approval). This keeps you learning while protecting your well-being.

Journaling Idea - On Sticks and Stones.

Have you ever been hurt by someone’s words but felt like you needed to hear them?

Think of a time when someone close to you gave you tough love or criticism. What did you take away from it?

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Natalia Łobodzińska

Published on

Jan 28, 2025

Journal in Stoic

HowTo=target

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking to learn moreabout emotions?

Find hundreds of quotes, affirmations, lessons, guided journals, and so much more in stoic.

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.

Have you ever been hurt by someone’s words but felt like you needed to hear them?

Join the Minimal Newsletter

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you think about this?

How do you think about this?

How do you think about this?

Looking to learn moreabout emotions?

More prompts on On Sticks and Stones