Diaristic writing by women is often unfairly criticized as being selfish, though the act of sharing one's experience is actually a valid way to find oneself.

“the idea of selfhood, just the idea of um diaristic writing by women feeling and being criticized for being like selfish and narcissistic. It's like, "Oh, sorry. I was being selfish. I wanted a self."”

Ed Mylett asserts that individuals must actively take control of their life narrative to break free from past trauma and unproductive patterns.

“And if you want to change your life, the key to changing your life, the beginning of it, there's many keys. It's not just one thing, but the beginning of it is taking control of the narrative, changing the story, even if it served you.”