Bullet Journaling
A customizable organization system that combines planning, tracking, and journaling. Create a personalized notebook that helps you manage tasks, goals, habits, and memories in one place.
What You'll Do
What You Need
Required
- ●Any notebook (lined, blank, or grid)($0-5)
- ●Pen or pencil($0)
Optional
- ○Ruler (optional for neat lines)($0)
- ○Dotted notebook (like Leuchtturm1917)($15-25)
- ○Colored pens or highlighters($5-15)
How To Do It
- 1
Set up your index
Reserve the first few pages to track what's in your journal and on which pages.
- 2
Create a future log
A 6-month overview for events and tasks too far ahead for monthly planning.
- 3
Set up your monthly spread
Calendar overview plus a task list for the month.
- 4
Use daily logging
Rapid log your tasks, events, and notes each day using bullet notation.
- 5
Review and migrate
At month's end, review incomplete tasks and migrate forward what's still relevant.
Tips
- →Common mistake: overcomplicating your first journal with elaborate s. Start with just the basics—, , monthly, and daily pages.
- →Your bullet journal doesn't need to be pretty to be effective
- →Habit trackers are great for building new routines
- →Don't be afraid to experiment and evolve your system
Communities
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to set up a bullet journal?
Your first basic setup takes 15-30 minutes. Daily logging takes just 5-10 minutes. Start simple and add complexity only as needed.
Do I need a special notebook to start?
No! Any notebook works—lined, blank, or even a cheap spiral notebook. Dotted notebooks are popular but completely optional. Start with what you have.
Do I need to be artistic to bullet journal?
Not at all! Many bullet journalists use simple layouts with just text and basic symbols. Fancy s are optional—start functional, add decoration only if you want.
What if I miss a day or make mistakes?
That's normal and expected! Just pick up where you left off. Cross out mistakes or leave blank pages. The system is meant to be flexible, not perfect.