I don’t feel motivated to do anything—how am I supposed to answer this prompt?

Start smaller than “motivation.” In Stoic, try a 3-line check-in: 1) Body: What’s one sensation right now? (tight shoulders, warm hands) 2) Emotion: Name the feeling (flat, tired, restless). 3) Micro-urge: What’s the smallest non-zero next move? Examples: sip water, stand and stretch, open the window, put one dish in the sink. Use the 2-minute rule: commit to just two minutes of that micro-urge. Journal one sentence afterward: “After doing it, I feel…” Tiny actions count; they often unlock the next step.

I have ten different impulses (coffee, email, a walk). How do I pick one without overthinking or shaming myself?

Use the ABC: Ask–Body–Choose. Ask: Which option lowers stress in 5 minutes? Body: Which makes my breath feel easier when I imagine doing it? Choose: Pick one and label it “good enough for now.” In Stoic, list 3 urges, mark each L (low effort) or R (restoring), then choose the first L or R that helps right-now you. Close by writing one line: “I chose X because it helps me feel Y.” That turns choice into a value-aligned decision, not a moral judgment.

This prompt feels too small—how do I connect a tiny action to my bigger goals so it matters?

Bridge it with a Because-Chain. In your Stoic entry, write: 1) Next tiny action: “Make tea.” 2) Because: “Because warm tea helps me slow down.” 3) So that: “So that I can start my project with a calmer mind.” End with one proof line after you do it: “Done. I feel 10% more ready.” Stoic principle: focus on what’s within control (the next action). Small steps are votes for your future; you don’t need certainty—just the next right move now.

Journaling Idea - On Motivation.

At this very moment, what are you feeling motivated to do?

Think small: what’s the next thing you feel like doing? It could be as small as wanting to stand up or make some coffee. What’s next?

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Zach Beauvais

Published on

Jul 21, 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.

At this very moment, what are you feeling motivated to do?

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