How can I use this week’s “On Frankly Speaking” prompts to be honest with myself without slipping into self-criticism?

Try a simple three-part page: 1) The frank line: Write one blunt, specific sentence about what’s true right now (no explanations). 2) The kind line: Follow it with one compassionate sentence that acknowledges effort or limits. 3) The next small move: One action fully in your control for today only. Link to the quotes as anchors: Epictetus for the control check (what’s mine vs not mine), Seneca for learning as you go (progress over perfection), and Socrates for “enjoy less” (aim for clarity, not volume). In Stoic, use the day’s prompt, then end your entry with this formula: “Truth: … Kindness: … Today’s move: …” Repeat daily and notice tone shifts, not just outcomes.

I need to tell a coworker a hard truth. How do I journal beforehand so I’m frank but not harsh?

Draft a mini-conversation in four lines: 1) Intention: “I’m sharing this to improve X.” 2) Observation: one concrete example (no labels). 3) Impact: how it affects work or outcomes. 4) Request: one specific, doable ask. Use the week’s prompt about a hard truth that went well to recall what made it land—usually specificity and care. Borrow Marcus Aurelius: “get active in your own rescue” by preparing, not ruminating. Add Maya Angelou’s nudge: aim for healing, not scoring points. Practically, write two versions—one too soft, one too sharp—then circle the simplest, clearest sentences they share. End with a consent line: “Open to a quick chat about this?” Rehearse once, then stop.

I overthink possible outcomes and fear rejection. How can I journal to separate what’s in my control before I speak up honestly?

Use a two-column split: Left—“Mine to control” (words I choose, timing, tone, clarity). Right—“Not mine” (their mood, approval, final decision). Add a three-lens check under Seneca’s reminder that anything can happen today: Worst (one line), Best (one line), Most likely (one line). Then write a humility note inspired by Ryan Holiday: “I don’t need to be noticed; I need to be clear.” Close with a micro-experiment: one honest sentence you’ll say today to a safe person/context. In Stoic, pair this with the prompt about something you rarely say out loud—practice the sentence on paper first, then carry only the left-column responsibilities into the conversation.

On Frankly Speaking

This week, we’ll practice honesty with others, and maybe more importantly, with ourselves.

Apr 06, 2026 ― Apr 12, 2026

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