Bullet journaling is a new sensation sweeping the internet. You’ve probably seen one or two artfully displayed bullet journals and wondered what makes it different than regular journaling. A bullet journal is a schedule, calendar, to-do list and journal all in one.

How is that for multi-tasking?  And all you need to get started is a high-quality, standard journal. 

Maybe you are hesitant because it seems overwhelming and like it would take too much time to set up something so detailed, but it is possible and well worth it. And, if you set aside an afternoon or two to get your bullet journal laid out, you will quickly see a difference in the time you save. There’s no need to make it an elaborate art project with doodles, sketches and drawings. If that’s your aesthetic, feel free, but bullet journaling can also be a minimalist experience.  With a journal you love, some planning, a ruler and pen, you can create the ultimate organizational and reflection tool, completely personalized to you. 

1) Make A List Of Layouts 

The main purpose of a bullet journal is organization, so starting out as organized as possible is key. Create a list of all the layouts you want to include in your bullet journal before beginning. 

2) Use Pencil First 

Once you have your list of layouts, make sure to use a light pencil to sketch out all of the sections for your journal. Using a ruler to draw straight lines will make it clean, neat and simple. Once the layout fits your vision, use a high quality pen to trace over the lines, taking your time to make sure they are neat and straight. 

3) Create An Index 

An index is the foundation for your bullet journal. This will be key in keeping the varied pages and categories organized and reachable with a simple flip to the correct page. Create an index on the first page of your journal and number all the pages on the bottom right hand corner. As the sections come to life, label the page numbers in the index accordingly. 

4) Create A Monthly Calendar 

Dedicate a section of the beginning of your bullet journal to a monthly calendar and a goal list. Use the calendar spaces to plan out any events coming up within the year. The goal list can pertain to fitness, work or creative projects you aim to accomplish in that 30 day time period. 

5) Create A Weekly Planner 

The next step would be to create a weekly breakdown for your journal. In this space, you can list out appointments, events, work projects, coffee dates, reminders and daily goals. You can also include your meal plan for the day and to-do list. This is a more in depth break down of your day and week then the birds-eye view of your monthly calendar. 

6) Create Your Lists

Include a section in your journal for list making. Some examples could be: books to read, TV shows to watch, things you’re saving up to buy, grocery and meal prep lists, recipes to try and more. So, if a friend shares a recipe you enjoyed, a new podcast to check out or a book recommendation, you can flip to the correct section and jot it down. 

This section is also where you can get as creative as possible. You can move beyond lists to pages tracking your mood, sleep habits, self-care routines, daily gratitude and more. You can create a page to list inspirational quotes you come across, date night ideas, and packing lists. The sky is really the limit. Take time brainstorming things that are important to you to track and preserve and add it to your layout.  

7) Leave A Processing Section 

After creating your calendars and lists, it’s important to leave some pages for unstructured writing and reflection. These pages will depend on your reason for creating a bullet journal. If your journal is more work focused, here you can unwind and process out the progress and challenges of your day and organize your work goals. If the journal is more for personal reasons, you can use it for spiritual reflections, prayers or just recording memorable moments in your day you’d want to look back on down the road.

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There is no wrong way to set up your bullet journal, and the options are truly endless. Condense your many paper lists, phone notes, calendars and written notes into one beautiful and organized source and watch your productivity and inspiration take flight.  

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Did you know the Grit & Virtue journals comes with a pre-made index and page numbers?  Other features include lined pages, a fabric book mark and inspirational quotes and Bible verses to encourage you as a woman on mission on every page.  Make this part of your bullet journal journey a breeze, and explore our journal collection here.