I feel guilty that I’d “waste” a day off. How can I journal through that feeling using this prompt?

Try a short, compassionate inquiry. In your Stoic journal: 1) Name the belief: Write, “Rest is wasted if…” and finish the sentence three times. Then write, “Rest helps me to…” three times. Notice the different tones. 2) Sort control vs. concern: What parts of your workload are truly within your control today, and what isn’t? Let the “isn’t” go for this entry. 3) Evidence check: List moments when rest improved your focus or mood. 4) Reframe the prompt: “If I had the day off, what one thing would leave me more aligned, not just accomplished?” Keep it small and values-based (connection, curiosity, care). Use Stoic as your daily companion to capture these reflections before and after the day to notice how guilt shifts.

I drew a blank—nothing comes to mind for a day off. What does that say, and how do I explore it?

A blank can mean you’re depleted or disconnected from what nourishes you. Gently explore: 1) Micro-moments scan: List three recent times you felt even 5% lighter (a walk, warm mug, music). 2) Body check-in: Ask, “What does my body want more of? Less of?” Write one word answers (sunlight, quiet, movement). 3) Anti-wish list: “If I had the day off, I definitely wouldn’t…” Clarifies boundaries. 4) Slow-scene sketch: Describe an ideal first hour of that day using senses (what you see, hear, touch). Let it be ordinary. In Stoic, keep this list handy; add a new micro-moment each day so options come more easily next time.

My first instinct is to use the day off to catch up on work. How can I journal about working slowly instead of just working more?

Start by examining trade-offs, not issuing rules. 1) Name the pull: “What feels urgent about working on my day off?” Then ask, “What would still feel incomplete even if I worked?” 2) Define slow work for you: Write three qualities (e.g., unhurried, single-tasking, focused on depth). 3) Choose one anchor: “If I honored one slow quality for one hour, what would that look like?” 4) Cost/renewal check: List one activity that renews attention (walk, nap, reading) and one that drains it. Notice which your plan leans toward. Use the Stoic app to capture a brief intention before the day and a two-sentence debrief after, so you can see how slow choices affect your clarity.

Journaling Idea - On Working Slowly.

If you were suddenly given the next workday off, what would you do with that time?

Does the answer come readily, or do you have to think hard?

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Zach Beauvais

Published on

Nov 10, 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.

If you were suddenly given the next workday off, what would you do with that time?

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