The Ultimate Guide to Bullet Journaling
Bullet Journaling has been a major game changer!
It's a planner system that incorporates everything that is on your mind.
Do you enjoy arts & crafts? Journaling? Staying organized? The bullet journal combines all 3 & more!
You don't have to decorate your bullet journal, but why not? This is a great opportunity to reduce stress as you would by coloring in a color book! I'm no artist, but stickers and stencils come in quite handy!
The bullet journal is also great for stress management because it's more comprehensive than your average calendar or planner.
What is a bullet journal?
It's basically a comprehensive planning system that you customize based on your desires and needs. A journal or book with empty or blank pages is used to create your customized personal planner.
Each month I spend time creating my bullet journal set up for the month. Then each day during the month I fill out sections of my bullet journal as needed.
I'm able to keep track of my schedule, to do lists, favorite brands, and more! I've even started to track my habits so that I am more accountable.
A lot of people use the Leuchtturm1917 notebook to start their bullet journal and I do too! The Leuchtturm1917 is great because it includes the following features:
Numbered pages
Blank table of contents for easy organization and notes
2 built-in bookmarks
Acid-free and ink proof paper, expandable pocket inside back cover, page marker and elastic closure
249 numbered pages, 8 perforated pages, 5.75 x 8.25 inches
I ordered my bullet journal from Amazon! You can order one by clicking here. I've tried visiting bookstores and other shops for this journal, but I find that Amazon has the best price. Plus, free shipping on Amazon Prime is irresistible.
Bullet Journal Uses
The bullet journal can be used for almost anything. I usually keep mine with me at all times by storing it in my purse.
brain dump for projects
wishlist
social media schedules
birthdays
mood tracker
to do list
appointments
habit tracker
take notes
grocery list
new ideas
books you want to read
expense tracker
sleep tracker
favorite brands
exercise tracker
goals
dreams you've had lately
resolutions
These are just some of the things that came to mind, but the opportunities are endless! You'll notice that some of these uses are bolded, which indicates that I use this feature in my own bullet journal.
My absolute favorite uses would be:
Tracking habits that I want to be diligent about or stop
Listing my favorite brands (clothing, makeup, restaurants, etc.)
Mood tracker
I guess I love these 3 uses because they are so crucial to my happiness, yet prior to the Bullet Journal I had no concrete way of recording them or staying accountable.
Supplies for Bullet Journal
Writing utensils
A pencil
Copic Marker in Basic Colors This is the one that I use, but I would also recommend buying one that has a slightly thicker tip. I love this marker, but I do find myself wanting something thicker sometimes.
Decor
Stickers. I love using these planner stickers, but there are so many fun options out there! Here's another option for planner stickers.
Stencils. Whether you're an artist or not, it's always good to have a few stencils on hand. Stencils are neat and perfect so they will keep your journal looking clean and beautiful.
Washi Tape. I have not used this, but it's quite popular. Use the tape to create fun and aesthetically pleasing borders throughout your journal. Here are a few washi tapes that I thought were cute and great for bullet journaling.
Other supplies
A ruler. These stainless steel rulers are also great to have because they are small enough to travel with, yet get the job done! You'll also note that they are pretty affordable too.
Do you already bullet journal?
Be sure to experiment with different layout and ideas to see what works best for you.
I've found that over the last few months, I've added and dropped certain aspects of my Bullet Journal depending on my own needs.