How can I use this prompt to discover my peak focus times without overcomplicating it?

Keep it simple and observational. For a week, write a short daily note in the Stoic app answering: 1) When did I feel most focused? 2) Where was I? 3) What was I doing? 4) How did my body feel (energy, calm, restlessness)? 5) What was different about this moment (sleep, caffeine, movement, noise)? Look for patterns rather than perfect answers. A stoic approach: describe what you observed, not what you wish had happened. After a few entries, choose one likely “focus window” and plan a similar setup tomorrow.

My focus is inconsistent (ADHD/overthinking). How do I journal about what actually helps my attention?

Use contrast journaling. In Stoic, do two quick lists: • Helps focus: clear task, quiet music, standing desk, short deadlines, body movement, morning hours, single tab. • Hurts focus: vague tasks, notifications, hunger, late nights, clutter, multitasking. Then write one sentence: “When X happens, I’ll try Y.” Example: “When a task feels vague, I’ll write the first next action.” This keeps entries actionable without pressure, and aligns with stoic practice of preparing for obstacles.

Work stress and high expectations keep derailing me. How do I turn this prompt into a realistic focus plan?

Apply the stoic dichotomy of control to your entry: • Within control: time of day you attempt deep work, your environment, your first step, your boundaries. • Not in control: others’ requests, outcomes, interruptions. In the Stoic app, write: 1) My best focus window tomorrow is ____ (time/place). 2) One important task I’ll start with is ____ (first 5-minute action). 3) I’ll protect it by ____ (boundary: do not disturb, door closed, headset). 4) If interrupted, I’ll resume by ____ (restart cue: reread last sentence, 10 deep breaths). Close with one line on how it went to refine tomorrow.

Journaling Idea - On Attention.

When do you feel the most focused or productive?

Why? What makes this time so good for your attention? Think about the space, the time of day, and the kinds of things you may be doing.

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Zach Beauvais

Published on

Jun 2, 2023

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.

When do you feel the most focused or productive?

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