How can I tell in my journal if I’m chasing novelty or seeking a real change?

Try a quick 5-step reflection: 1) Name the desire: “I want ____.” 2) Underlying need: “Because I’m really needing ____ (e.g., autonomy, connection, mastery).” 3) Time horizon: “Will this still matter in 6 months?” 4) Cost and upkeep: “What would this require of me each week?” 5) After the honeymoon: “If the initial excitement fades, what remains?” Novelty often scores high on early excitement, low on maintenance meaning; meaningful change tends to align with values and withstands the “after the honeymoon” question. Open Stoic and answer these prompts in a few lines each to clarify your intention.

I feel scared to change things. How do I use this prompt to focus on what’s in my control?

Use a control split: On one side, list elements you control (effort, boundaries, routines, how you ask for help). On the other, list what you don’t (others’ opinions, market shifts, the past). Write one sentence for each: “I will act on…” and “I will accept…”. Then note one tiny experiment (a 1% adjustment you can try this week) that supports the change you want. This keeps the journaling grounded and reduces overwhelm. Stoic’s daily prompt is a good anchor—start with 5 minutes and stop when you’ve named your next small experiment.

I overthink outcomes. How can I journal about wanting something new vs wanting change without spiraling?

Contain the thought process with a simple layout: Two columns—New vs Change. For each column, write three quick bullets: Best case, Likely case, Learnings even if it “fails.” Then do a values check: “Which option better reflects the person I’m practicing being?” End with a one-line commitment for the next 24 hours (e.g., a question to ask, a draft to write, a boundary to try). Using Stoic, keep it brief—short bullets prevent rumination and help you close the entry with a concrete next step.

Journaling Idea - On desire.

What is the difference between wanting something new and wanting something to change?

Is it easier to imagine getting something new than it is to think about things you want to be different?

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Zach Beauvais

Published on

May 9, 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.

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