How do I journal about limits without feeling like I’m giving up on my goals?

Try reframing limits as design constraints. In Stoic, start an entry titled “Constraints that guide me.” 1) Use two columns: Boundaries (healthy limits that protect me) vs. Obstacles (things to overcome). This aligns with the prompt on the difference between a boundary and an obstacle. 2) For each obstacle, write: “If I can’t change X, I will do Y,” leaning into the idea that we control responses more than outcomes. 3) End with one hopeful action that still honors your dream (Eleanor Roosevelt’s quotes), e.g., “Within my time limit, I’ll draft the first paragraph.” Constraints become a shape for progress, not a stop sign.

I overthink possible outcomes at work. How can this week’s theme on constraints help me calm down?

Use a simple “Control vs. Not Control” split at the start of your Stoic entry. 1) Write what’s within your control (effort, preparation, communication) and what isn’t (others’ reactions, final decisions). 2) Translate worries into if–then plans: “If my proposal is challenged, then I’ll ask two clarifying questions.” 3) Add one playful line to reduce intensity (Naval Ravikant’s “monkey with a plan”) so language doesn’t inflate fear (Koestler). 4) Close with the day’s prompt on limits you consider in big decisions—naming limits often shrinks overthinking by making edges clear.

How can I use journaling to set compassionate boundaries with myself and others this week?

Make a “Boundary Brief” in Stoic. 1) Self-boundaries: Respond to the prompt on physical limits—write your current energy level (0–10) and one activity to match it. 2) Work/relational boundaries: Write one sentence you can actually say: “I can help for 30 minutes today, not the full task.” 3) Intentional constraints: Time-box one task (e.g., 25 minutes) and note how the box improves focus (Safra Catz’s not seeing the box—until you choose one). 4) End with a values check: “Saying what I feel is okay” (be who you are…)—boundaries protect what matters, obstacles just block. Reflect at day’s end on what surprised you about these constraints.

On Constraints

monday.

tuesday.

wednesday.

thursday.