I’m afraid of falling behind at work. How do I journal with this theme to separate real obligations from imagined pressures?

Start with “Tomorrow, I will absolutely need…” and list only what is required to keep your role functioning (deliverable, meeting, response). Next to each item, add the evidence it’s required (request, deadline, impact). Put all other worries on a second list labeled Imagined Costs—things you fear might happen. Marcus reminds us: “You have power over your mind—not outside events.” End by choosing one controllable, necessary action for tomorrow and one belief to relax (e.g., “Every email must be immediate”). Capture both lists in Stoic to notice patterns through the week.

How do I align my priorities with “the port I sail to” so decisions feel lighter and more intentional?

Choose a single short‑term “port” for the week (e.g., steady energy, patient communication, focused deep work). Each morning, write: “If my port is X, the only necessary actions today are…” Limit to 3. Use Marcus’s cue: “The things you think about determine the quality of your mind”—journal one sentence you’ll return to when distracted. Remove one non‑essential object or obligation each day (inspired by the prompts) to free attention for your port. At night, reflect with Seneca’s “Begin at once to live”: Did I live my port today? Note one adjustment for tomorrow in the Stoic app.

On Necessity

Q: How can I use the “packing list” prompt to cut mental clutter and focus on what’s truly necessary this week?

Treat your to‑dos and commitments like items in a carry‑on. Write everything you’re planning to take on, then mark each as Need or Nice. If you’re unsure, apply the postponement test: could this wait a week without major consequence? (Seneca: “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.”) Keep only 1–3 Needs for each day and let the rest be optional. Close by noting one essential you’re grateful for to reinforce sufficiency. Use the Stoic app to log your daily list and brief reflection alongside this week’s quotes for focus.

On Necessity

This week, we’ll reflect on what is necessary.

Apr 16, 2023 ― Apr 22, 2023

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Frequently Asked Questions

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