Bullet Journaling 101
Bullet Journaling is an organization and planning system created by Ryder Carroll. It's purpose is to be"an evolving, adaptable practice meant to be self curated as you determine what works best for you". The system organizes scheduling, reminders, to-do lists, brainstorming, and other organizational tasks into a single notebook. Bullet Journals are not limited to planning, some use bullet journals for art, travel memoirs, and other personal journaling practices.
Following this guide will get you the classic bullet journal that Ryder Carrol designed. However, the idea behind bullet journaling is creating a journal curated to you and your lifestyle. Leave out any component you want or feel free to add more.
Getting started can seem overwhelming, but it's important to remember that bullet journaling is not about following instructions or drawing perfect illustrations. Whether you can draw or not Ryder Carrol has some advice for you: "Forget about what you see online. It's not about how it looks; it's about how it feels, and, most importantly, how it works for you".
This list of supplies will help get you started in making your own journal. Remember it's all about how it works for you, so follow your instincts and only choose the supplies peak your interest.
- Pen(s) or pencil(s)
- A Notebook - ruled, grid, or dotted
- A ruler
- Tape
- Stickers
- Colored pens or markers
- Stamps
- Various decorative stationary
Instruction Guide
Step 1: Creating the Index
Open to the first blank pages and label your index. This will be your table of contents. We'll fill in the rest of the information later.
Step 2: Creating the Future Log
The purpose of the future log is to have a designated space for the next six months. Just like the index, turn to the next blank pages and jot down the next six months in any way you like, making sure to leave room under each month for your future goals.
Step 3: Creating the Monthly Log
On the next set of blank pages, start writing on month per page. Inside each month, write down the corresponding weeks or days. The idea is to create a calendar that you think will fit your liking.
Step 4: Creating the Daily Log
The rest of your journal will be dedidcated to filling in your daily log. In a perfect world, you would journal everyday; writing down your to-do list, your feelings, or your goals. But don't feel pressured that you need to journal everyday. Whatever you see fit to include inside your daily log is up to you. Remember, it's about how it feels and how it works for you. Happy Journaling!
