What to do if Stanley’s tone feels “too positive”

If Stanley’s responses feel overly upbeat, polished, or “motivational,” you’re not doing anything wrong. It usually just means Stanley needs clearer direction around your edge, opinion, or emotional range.

Stanley can absolutely write with nuance, skepticism, intensity, or restraint — he just needs to know that’s what you want!

Step 1: Name the tone you don’t want 🚫

Start by being explicit about what’s not landing.

You can say things like:

• “This feels too positive for what I’m trying to say.”

• “I don’t want this to sound inspirational.”

• “This feels a little cheerleader-y — can we ground it more?”

• “I want this to feel real, not uplifting.”

Calling this out directly helps Stanley recalibrate quickly.

Step 2: Describe the tone you do want 🎯

Then, tell Stanley what you’re aiming for instead.

Helpful tone descriptors might include:

• Grounded

• Neutral

• Direct

• Honest

• Matter-of-fact

• Reflective

• Calm but firm

💡 Example prompts:

• “Rewrite this in a more grounded, neutral tone.”

• “Can you remove the optimism and keep it factual?”

• “I want this to feel honest and human, not motivational.”

Step 3: Ask Stanley to remove softeners ✂

If the positivity is coming from extra cushioning language, you can ask Stanley to strip it back.

For example:

• Remove encouragement or reassurance

• Cut inspirational closers

• Avoid exclamation points

• Reduce emotional framing

This often results in a clearer, more authoritative post.

Pro tip: Stanley mirrors what you model ✍🏼

If you paste in writing that reflects your natural tone — even if it’s blunt, messy, or unfinished — Stanley will follow that lead more closely in future drafts!

🙋 Need a hand?

If you’re not sure how to describe the tone you want, or you keep getting drafts that feel “off,” email us at stanley@stanwith.me and we’re happy to help you dial it in 💌