First things first: do not search “bullet journaling” on Pinterest. If you do, there is a 73% chance of design envy, project paralysis, and heart palpitations. (This statistic is totally made up, but I had all these symptoms, so it could be legit.)
At its core, bullet journaling is a note-taking/planning/organization method designed to “reduce complexity and provide clarity,” says Ryder Carroll, the technique’s creator. Rising to popularity in 2016, it’s a straightforward system with few rules that can be customized to you. Part list, part planner, all the tasks and notes and reminders we collect in our daily lives can be organized into one simple notebook. You can monitor today’s to-dos, track your trips to the gym or books you want to read, and see upcoming events.
So, why take the time to add another “organization method” to your repertoire?
- Better than an hour with your therapist! Studies show that writing helps clarify and acknowledge thoughts and feelings, leading to better emotional and mental wellbeing.
- Remember this… Penning out your grocery list means you might actually remember most of it when you get to the store (but still may leave your list on the kitchen table!).
- A to B to Z. With the power of free association, listing out your vacation bucket list reminds you to book a rental car, which reminds you that your missing keys are in your jacket!
- Empty the attic. Getting stuff out of your head and onto paper releases a mental weight and gives you freedom to actually get stuff done (or just think more things).
- Ditch digital distractions. Familiar scenario: you hop on your phone to leave a quick reminder and 10 minutes later you’ve checked the weather, perused Instagram, and bought shoes on eBay. What were you trying to remember again?
- You do you! No complex system, no pre-printed framework. You can organize information in ways that make sense to you and fit your life.
Technology has its place, but there are so many benefits to good, old-fashioned handwritten lists. Plus, there’s almost no learning curve. Getting started with this “system” (it’s almost too simple to call it that) can take you less time than reading this article.
To start a bullet journal, you need:
- A notebook
- A pen
- That’s it.
The requirements:
- An index (aka table of contents)
- Numbered pages
- The end.
Kickoff your journaling journey by watching this intro video from Ryder Carroll. In 4 minutes 11 seconds, he will show you how easy it is to get started with a few simple steps. If you choose, you can add complexity over time: a future log, spreads for planning, collections, habit trackers, etc. Go crazy with the colored markers, washi tape, stickers. Or stick to a ballpoint pen and spiral notebook. It’s all you!
