How can I use journaling to stop taking rude comments so personally, like this quote suggests?

Try a two-column reflection. In your journal, write: 1) What happened (facts only), 2) My first reaction, 3) What this reaction says about my ego (e.g., need to be right, need to be liked), 4) A response aligned with my values. End with: “What does their behavior say about them, not me?” and “What do I want to embody next time?” In the Stoic app, make this a short daily check-in after stressful interactions to train the shift from ego-defense to values-driven response.

What prompts can I use in Stoic when I feel disrespected at work without spiraling?

Use a grounding sequence: 1) Trigger: What was said/done (keep it neutral). 2) Control: What is in my control right now? 3) Value: Who do I want to be in this moment (patient, clear, firm)? 4) Boundary: What’s a respectful boundary or request I can make? 5) Perspective: If this were about their patterns, not my worth, how would I see it? Keep answers to 1–2 sentences each to prevent overthinking.

I worry that not reacting makes me a doormat. How do I journal to balance self-respect with not feeding my ego?

Create a “Respect vs. Ego” checklist in your journal. After an incident, rate 1–5: 1) Was my goal clarity or victory? 2) Did I state my boundary? 3) Did I avoid insults/labels? 4) Did I ask for what I need? 5) Would Future Me be proud of this response? Note: Calm doesn’t mean passive; it means deliberate. Use Stoic for quick post-incident notes and a weekly review to spot patterns you can refine.

Those who have subdued their ego understand that it doesn’t degrade you when others treat you poorly; it degrades 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 quotes from Ryan Holiday