The Basics of Bullet Journaling
Find the balance between a diary, a to-do list and a planner.
More stories from Valerie Rasmussen
Having the Right Journal– It might seem like this basic is a no-brainer, but it can make or break the journey of bullet journaling. Like many other things, there are tons of options when it comes to picking a journal; picking the right one is an important decision. One may feel that a solid color allows for them to have the creativity show on the inside, but another may feel that bright colors will help to inspire them. Whatever choice is made, the best way to pick a journal is to find which one feels like it would allow for inspiration and feel comforting at the same time.
Ruler– Part of the appeal of a bullet journal is the cleanliness and sharpness of the style. To accomplish this, it’s important to have a ruler or straight edge around to make the journal as perfect as can be.
Coloring Supplies– Decorating the journal is oftentimes the most fun part of the project. In order to do that, one needs the proper coloring supplies. Depending on what is preferred, markers, colored pencils, gel pens and paint are all viable options. For some added character, one can mix and match different utensils on the medium. Adding a splash of color can help bring the pages to life. 24 year old blogger Shelby Abrahamsen documents her experiences with her bullet journal and understands that every person is different when it comes to supplies.
“I use tons of different supplies,” Abrahamsen said. “For me, every project or page requires something different. I know that for lots of people, two or three pens are more than enough.”
Abrahamsen also has a list of tools that she uses and recommends, some of which include the Leuchtturm 1917 Dotted A5 journal, a Pilot Metropolitan Retro Pop Fountain Pen, Staedtler Triplus Fineliner Set markers, a Pigma Micron Pen set along with many other different types of utensils.
Be Creative– This is one of the most important aspects of the entire experience. One needs to let their creative side show, and allow themselves to transform the blank pages into ones filled with beauty and elegance accompanied by some splashes of color. Letting oneself imagine and create whatever they wish is one reason why the bullet journal is becoming so popular; it allows complete freedom without the restriction of lines. The pure emptiness of the pages help the owner of the journal portray their personality using different styles, utensils and fonts. Some typical additions to the journal include daily, weekly and monthly calendars, a chart for tracking one’s mood, a to-do list and some inspirational quotes to help lift one up during a bad day or just for some added positivity.
Sophomore Madalyn Carpenter feels that starting a journal might help her.
“I like to have a journal or a calendar to tell me what I have to do,” Carpenter said. “I would also be creative with it because of all the open space. A bullet journal could give me an opportunity to keep track of every little thing I need to do.”
Just remember the journal is open for interpretation and it only comes to life once the owner has put their effort into its pages.
