Ain't No Shame in Starting a Journal (And Struggling to Keep It Going)
Strategies for Implementing and Maintaining Bullet Journaling Routine
If you've ever jumped on the bullet journal bandwagon only to give it up a few weeks later, no worries – you're in good company. Journaling in general is a fantastic hobby that boasts mental and physical health benefits such as reduced stress and lowered blood pressure (thanks, Cambridge University researchers!). And when it comes to bullet journaling, you've got the potential to turn your productivity and organization skills up a notch. But starting a journal and sticking with it can feel like an uphill battle. Here, we're walking you through how to maintain your bullet journal and make it a habit instead of a fleeting goal.
The Guru Speaks
Amanda Rach Lee, artist, stationery designer, and founder of shop ARL, puts it this way: "I like to think of my journal as my brain dashboard. It's a place where I can write down even the tiniest fleeting thought or task. Once it's on the page, it makes it easier for you to mentally organize your thoughts."
Breaking Down Bullet Journaling
Bullet journaling is all about planning, writing, and doodling in your own unique way. Ready to dive in? Just grab some paper, a pen, and a marker (or two) for good measure. Feeling a bit overwhelmed? Begin with a simple layout and build up complexity later on.
Layout It Out
Your bullet journal can be structured however you see fit, but it's recommended to number your pages for better organization. An index, future log, monthly logs, daily logs, and habit/goal trackers tend to make frequent appearances.
Embrace the Essentials
A bullet journal can be created in any notebook, but dotted pages are a favorite for their versatility. Start with just a pen and a notebook and upgrade to markers, Washi tapes, and other stationery goodies once you've got the basics down.
Let Loose with Customizations
Once you've established the foundation of your bullet journal, get creative! Use color-coding, stickers, and decorative formatting to really make your journal shine. And don't forget about those habit and goal trackers! Whether it's a to-read book list or a budget tracker, personalize your journal to reflect what's most important to you.
Maintaining Your New Habit
Dedicating a specific time to your journal can help you build and maintain the habit. Five to ten minutes each day in the morning or during lunch can do the trick. Keep your materials in the same spot for easy access, and don't stress if you miss a day or two – just start back up when you're ready.
The key to success is starting simple and being kind to yourself. As Amanda Rach Lee puts it, "A lot of people try to dive head-first and implement too many new systems into their lives, and then get disappointed when they aren’t able to upkeep those habits. Again, it's best to start simple." With these tips under your belt, you'll be cruising through your bullet journaling practice in no time, reaping all the benefits that come with it.
Pro Tips:
- Embrace simplicity: Start with the basics, like numbered pages, an index, future log, monthly logs, and daily logs.
- Choose a regular time: Stick to a consistent schedule for updating your journal.
- Keep your tools nearby: Keeping your notebook and writing tools in a designated spot will make it convenient to start your journaling practice.
- Be kind to yourself: Missing a day or two is okay. Don't let it discourage you from continuing.
- Personalize your journal: Add habit and goal trackers that reflect your interests to keep your journal engaging and relevant.
- Keep it short: Five to ten minutes is all it takes to make a daily journaling session effective.
- Use creative freedom: Allow yourself to enjoy the creative aspects of bullet journaling by adding colors, stickers, or doodles as you become more comfortable.
- Review and reflect: Periodically review past entries to reflect on accomplishments and adjust future goals.
Happy journaling!
- For a personalized wellness routine, consider delving into DIY projects, crafts like paper crafts, by starting a journal that caters to your interests and goals.
- Martha Stewart, renowned lifestyle entrepreneur, advocates for using a journal as a brain dashboard, a space to jot down thoughts and tasks, promoting mental organization.
- If you're new to the bullet journaling world, begin with straightforward layouts and essential tools, such as a pen and notebook, before exploring customization options like markers, Washi tapes, and stickers.
- To make bullet journaling a habit, designate specific routines, like journaling for five to ten minutes daily during morning or lunchtime, and ensure that your materials are readily available.
- Living a balanced life involves kindness to oneself, so, when it comes to establishing journaling habits, start simple, avoid rushing, and remember that it's okay to miss a day or two, as the key lies in persistence and self-compassion.
