*Originally published in 2020
Updated on January 3, 2024:
No time like the present to start a bullet journal!
Can you remember what you did for date night two months ago? Where do you keep your ideas for your New Year's resolutions? With a bullet journal, you can design your own catch-all book of ideas and memories that will last you a lifetime.
Start with the basics.
So, what is a bullet journal, anyway? Simply put, it's a combination of a to-do list/calendar/journal illustrated with fun little doodles and themes. Keeping a bullet journal is more of a creative hobby that allows you to express yourself in small ways in one central place. It's also a great way to spend some time when you're feeling a bit cooped up.
What you'll need to start one is a blank book and things to write with: pens, colored pencils, and markers are a great start. Even though your first instinct may be to go for lined pages, a grid-dot page gives you more flexibility when creating your layouts and designs. Amazon and other retailers have so many bullet journals, so you'll have no trouble finding one you like!
However, it is important to note that, depending on the pens and markers you use, you'll want to utilize a journal with thicker paper so you don't get bleeds through to the other pages. We recommend a bullet journal with at least 120 GSM (grams per square meter; i.e., the weight of the paper), but definitely suggest 150 GSM or higher if you're able. (Some journals go up to 170 GSM!)
Get inspired.
Dozens of YouTubers and TikTokers put out videos about their doodles and bullet journal (bujo) layouts. One of my favorites is Amanda Rach Lee. Her soothing voice and simple illustrations make it easy to follow along.
Don't worry if you're not into drawing; there are bujo gurus who do minimalist layouts and others who do extremely detailed, fanciful illustrations. The sky's the limit, so just keep searching until you can find a style that speaks to you.
Everything is important.
At a time when no one is going out much, you may be at a loss about what to write about. Jot down anything that comes to mind: the time you scored a container of disinfectant wipes, a particularly bad storm, or even the neighborhood spot's best new pizza. No entry is too small or insignificant.
A bullet journal is also a great place to keep notes about new recipes or what's going on in the news. Believe it or not, there will be a time when you'll want to look back and remember all of these little details.
Do a little bit at a time.
Most journaling experts will suggest you don't get too far ahead of yourself. Work in your current month and start the next one just a week early. You never know when you'll change your mind about themes and what to include. If you're not sure what to write about, try using your new journal as a giant to-do list and mark off tasks once they're done. You'll be surprised at how satisfying it is!
Be creative.
Write about a dream trip you could never afford. Come up with date night ideas for later in the year. Bored on a rainy day? Illustrate some of your favorite recipes or find new ones to try. The fun of a bullet journal is that it can be anything you want it to be.
Last but not least, don't be hard on yourself. Keeping a bullet journal is meant to be a creative outlet, not something that gives you anxiety. By combining your to-do lists with a traditional diary setup, you've got a better chance of keeping this one going. It's always okay to take a break, though.
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