Keeping A Bullet Journal Will Transform Your Year
Listen, I get it. A regular journaling practice sounds amazing. It’s something we all want because we read about the benefits for our mental health and emotional stamina. Plus, the aesthetic seems top-tier according to Instagram posts, self-help books, and even movies (Cheerio, Bridget Jones!).
So why is it so hard to stay consistent? For many of us, journaling can seem daunting because of the time it takes to dig deep inside and get intentional about your inner work. We’re bombarded with to-do’s from the moment we wake up, so scheduling in that level of reflection can feel like too much. But you don’t have to wax poetic for pages and pages to reap the benefits of a regular journaling practice.
If you crave a solid journaling practice but can’t seem to keep it going, bullet journaling may be worth a try!
What is bullet journaling?
A bullet journal is a paired-down, more creative version of the standard journaling style. The idea was inspired by “bullet point” task lists, except this time you’re capturing feelings, events, and inspired thoughts via bullet point. There are unlimited ways to optimize a bullet journal, but most use it to jot down short and sweet daily diary entries, to-do’s, artsy doodles, and even minimalist calendar build-outs. It’s like a mini brain-dump catchall inside one notebook.
How do you get started?
First and foremost, get a notebook that inspires you. Maybe it has a fun print or inspirational saying on the cover. Or maybe the inside is organized in a way that makes sense to you. One of the tips bullet journalers often teach is to number your pages and create a little index at the top of your journal so you can easily navigate it throughout the year. Your index could include some kind of color-coding system for your task lists or months of the year. Do what works for you and keep it simple.
Once you’ve got it organized the way you like, it’s time to start bullet-pointing! Take the pressure off and just list out how you’re feeling, a few intentions for the day or maybe a mantra, any events you’d like to recap, etc. Make it a point to do this little practice every day and by the end of 2023, you’ll have a journal stuffed with memories and celebrations!
Final thoughts & bullet journal prompts…
As we enter a new year, it’s so important to set some intentions. Goals are great for future processing and dream-building, but intentions are what keep you present and purposeful. As you begin your bullet journaling journey, remind yourself of those intentions daily, and don’t be afraid to reevaluate them as seasons change. What you intended at the top of the year will most likely evolve and change by the end of the year because of your personal growth, so tracking that shift with those bullet points will give you so much to celebrate!
Pro Tip: If you’re lost on what to write, always go back to gratitude. Writing a big list of what you’re grateful for at the beginning or end of your day will keep your perspective in check and your heart healthy!
As you begin your bullet journal, here are a few questions to consider…
What’s my “word” of the year? If you choose one, break out the watercolors or try doodling it on the page!
What’s inspiring you right now? Jot down a list.
Is there anything holding you back from your big scary dream in 2023? If so, is that something you can release? What needs to happen to let it go?
What is your intention or mantra for 2023?
What are three things you can do today to prioritize your mental health and self-care?
How are you feeling in this moment?
How are you feeling about the new year?
What are you most looking forward to this month?
What am I grateful for this week?