Writing a bullet journal is a good way to store your thoughts and goals. Similar to a planner, scrapbook, sketchbook, diary or to-do-list - the bullet journal is a fun and creative way to express yourself. Why limit yourself to just one style, when you could have an all in one. This is what a bullet journal allows you to do and it’s easy to see why they have become so popular.

The most common bullet journal is designed with a page dot grid, although you could also use a blank paged journal if that is more your style.

Why would I want to use bullet journal?

If you are wanting to start a journal or notebook. Or if you’re just looking for a creative outlet, then this could be for you. It’s a fun way to stay organized and keep track of your life.

Being able to have total creative freedom over what your journal contains, means you are more likely to use it because it is custom made for your needs, by you.

Plus it being visually appealing, makes you more likely to want to use it, rather then just looking at boring text.

Take the time to give it personality, you won’t regret it in the long term, and will likely enjoy flicking back through past journals to see your achievements.

You will achieve a sense of accomplishment as you fill out your goal, and see your goals add up over, days, weeks and months.

In which case, you’ll be more likely to stick to that goal or exercising rescheme if you can visually see your efforts paying off.

What do I need?

All you need is a pen and journal. Unless you want to get creative, in which case I recommend using gel pens, washi tape, a ruler, stickers, highlighters and coloured pencils.

You can use what ever you like, and if you’re stuck for ideas, there are endless suggestions and examples online.

Where to start?

With the first page of course. While it isn’t essential, it sure is fun to have an opening to start you in the right direction. You might choose the year, your name, topic of your journal or an inspirational quote. Whatever it is, make sure it is relevant to you and your goals.

Early on I recommend making a “Key”. This means making a page or section that will indicate what symbols/icons or colours you plan on using to reference different things in your journal. This will help with scheduling and making notes.

Next, create an index, for quick navigation. Instead of flicking through your pages trying to find specific items, save time and number each page. Make note on your index where you can find important things to refer back to later.