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13 Bullet Journaling Ideas For Beginners

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Diving into Bullet Journaling for beginners can feel like stepping into a whole new world. But fear not! It’s a world filled with creativity, productivity, and the joy of organizing your own life in a unique, personal way. And hey, who doesn’t love a bit of doodling while they’re at it?

Here’s a secret: everyone starts somewhere, even the most artistic Bullet Journal enthusiasts you see on Instagram. They were beginners once too! So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath, grab that shiny new notebook, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together.

In this post, we’ll explore some fantastic Bullet Journaling ideas for beginners, from easy layouts to creative trackers. These ideas will help you start your own Bullet Journal adventure with confidence and fun.

Imagine you’re whipping up a delicious meal. You wouldn’t just toss all the ingredients into the pot at once, right? It’s the same with Bullet Journaling, especially for beginners. The perfect ‘recipe’ for your journal involves carefully selecting the right pages that suit your style and needs.

But here’s the kicker: you don’t have to cram all the spreads into your journal right off the bat. That’s like trying to bake a cake, cook a roast, and prepare a salad all at the same time – overwhelming and likely to leave you with a kitchen disaster!

Instead, think of your Bullet Journal adventure as a leisurely stroll through a beautiful park, not a frantic race. Each month, introduce a new page or two into your journal.

Test them out, see how they sit with your lifestyle. If they help you stay organized and boost your productivity, bingo! You’ve found a keeper. But if they don’t quite hit the mark, no sweat! There are heaps more Bullet Journal page ideas waiting to be discovered.

Remember, this journey is all about you. It’s about finding what clicks, what helps you live your best, most organized life.

And be sure to scroll until the end to get a FREE course for beginners, as well as get more resources on Bullet Journaling for beginners.

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Stationery Recommendations

Of course, to create any of these pages, you’ll need some supplies. And here are so many out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

So here are some of my recommendations:

  • A journal. Of course, the first thing you’ll need to get is a journal, and there are really options depending on your budget. I really love Archer and Olive journals, but you could also go with something more affordable, like a Lemome Dot Grid Journal.
  • Fineliners. A good set of fineliners is a total must-have. It allows you to create any type of Bullet Journal page, and having a set of pens with different nib sizes will help you add more variety. My go-to are Sakura Pigma Micron pens.
  • Markers. I always recommend Crayola Super Tips, since they are pretty affordable and come in so many different colors. But my personal favorites are Zebra Mildliners since I absolutely love the colors.
  • Brush pens. These are great for adding color to your pages, but also for brush lettering and creating beautiful headers. Tombow Dual Brush Pens are some of the best, and they come in so many different colors!
  • Small Tip Brush Pens. I think these are a must-have since they are so multi-functional! You can use them to add little brush lettering accents to your pages, add headers, and draw. I would recommend you get a set of Tombow Fude Brush Pens.
  • Stencils. Stencils are a great way to speed up your Bullet Journal setup process, and there are stencils for both creating practical elements of your pages, as well as decorative elements. I love this set of Bullet Journal stencils from Etsy, but if you’re looking for a more budget option, you could check these stencils from Amazon.

I can go on and on about different stationery items. So, for now, let’s keep it at that.

Time to get all your supplies, go to your home office or couch, get comfortable, and start planning. Here are a few ideas for you to try!

Bullet Journaling Ideas For Beginners

You know, Bullet Journaling is a bit like a buffet. There’s an incredible array of options to choose from – some popular favorites, some hidden gems, and some that might just become your new go-to!

In compiling this list, I’ve focused on pages that beginners often gravitate towards. These are the crowd-pleasers, the ones that have proven time and again to be helpful stepping stones in the Bullet Journaling journey.

I’ve also included a few of my personal favorites – the pages that, over time, have made a significant impact on my own Bullet Journaling experience. These are the pages that I keep coming back to, the ones that have truly helped me stay organized and productive.

But here’s the beauty of Bullet Journaling – it’s all about personalization. It’s all about finding what works for you. So while this list is a great starting point, I encourage you to branch out, try new things, and create a system that caters to your unique needs and lifestyle.

Remember, Bullet Journaling isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a journey of discovery. So go ahead, experiment, play around, and most importantly, have fun with it! After all, you’re not just creating a journal; you’re crafting a tool that will help you live your best life.

Weekly Spread

Alright, let’s dive in! The first idea I’m going to share with you is, in my humble opinion, the bedrock of Bullet Journaling and day-to-day planning. Drumroll, please… it’s the weekly spread!

Now, here’s a fun fact: the weekly spread wasn’t originally part of the Bullet Journal system. Shocking, right? But over time, it’s evolved into a staple that many of us couldn’t imagine our Bullet Journals without.

Think of your weekly spread like your trusty sidekick, always there to give you an overview of your week at a glance. It’s like having your own personal assistant who knows exactly what you’ve got lined up for the week – birthdays, dentist appointments, yoga classes, that coffee date you’ve been looking forward to – it’s all there!

So grab those pens, pick out your favorite stickers or doodles, and let’s create a weekly spread that makes planning your days a joy rather than a chore. Remember, this is YOUR journal. Make it a tool that not only organizes your life but also brings a smile to your face every time you open it.

Gratitude Log

Picture this: you’ve got a cozy corner in your Bullet Journal that’s like a warm hug at the end of a long day. That, my friends, is what I fondly call the ‘Gratitude Log’. In our fast-paced world that often feels like a never-ending race for more, this humble little page is my pit stop to take a breather and appreciate the good things I already have.

The rules are simple – every day, you pen down something you’re thankful for. It could be a big, life-changing event like landing your dream job, or something as sweet and simple as savoring a hot cup of cocoa while watching the rain pitter-patter against your window.

The magic of the gratitude log lies in its power to shift your perspective from ‘I want’ to ‘I have’. This tiny shift can fill your heart with contentment and joy, but that’s not all!

Believe it or not, science backs up the benefits of gratitude. Studies suggest that counting your blessings can boost your mental well-being, increase happiness levels, and may even give your physical health a leg-up.

Well, besides being a daily dose of positivity, it’s a gentle reminder of the many beautiful things in our lives that we often overlook. It’s like having a personal cheerleader tucked away in your journal, always ready to remind you of the sunshine amidst the clouds.

Habit Tracker

This handy little spread is like a daily report card of sorts, keeping tabs on everything from how many glasses of water you’ve chugged down to whether or not you squeezed in that morning jog.

And, let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of seeing a streak of checkmarks celebrating your progress. But the real treasure? The insights it offers.

Those empty slots marking the days when you missed out on a habit aren’t badges of defeat but rather stepping stones toward understanding and growth.

So, why should you make room for a habit tracker in your Bullet Journal? The answer’s as clear as day: it gives you a bird’s eye view of your habits, holds you accountable, and sparks positive change. If you ask me, that’s a triple win!

Mood Tracker

Allow me to introduce you to another secret weapon in the Bullet Journal toolkit – the mood tracker! This one’s a personal favorite of mine.

Here’s how it works. Each day, you get to play Picasso, coloring in a space that matches your mood. As the days roll on, what you’re left with is this beautiful, colorful mosaic that tells the story of your emotional journey.

But don’t be fooled by its pretty face. The mood tracker is so much more than just a piece of art. It’s like your personal emotional detective, helping you uncover patterns, triggers, and trends in your emotional well-being.

Let’s say you notice a pattern of feeling blue every Monday. Could it be a sign that your Sunday routine needs a little shake-up? Or maybe you see a streak of happy hues following your yoga sessions. Sounds like a compelling reason to make downward dog your new best friend, right? The mood tracker is packed with these nuggets of insight that can steer your self-care practices and lifestyle tweaks.

Boba Themed Bullet Journal Setup, mood tracker 2 | Masha Plans

It’s an easy, fun, and creative way to get to know your emotions better. And hey, understanding our feelings is the first step towards managing them effectively.

Routine Spread

You craft different routines for different slices of your day – a sunrise routine to kickstart your morning, an office routine to keep your workday humming, a twilight routine to wind down your evening, or even a ‘me-time’ routine for some much-needed self-pampering.

What you get is a visual roadmap of your daily routines. Not only does it keep you on track, but it also spotlights areas where you could be a bit more efficient. It’s like having a friendly little efficiency expert right there on the page!

The beauty of the routine page is its adaptability. Regular check-ins and tweaks ensure that these routines are tailored to your lifestyle and goals, paving the way for increased productivity and satisfaction. Plus, it’s a great ally when you’re trying to build new habits, like getting into the swing of using your Bullet Journal.

Think of the routine page as your Swiss Army knife for structuring your day, fostering good habits, and achieving a harmonious balance across all aspects of your life.

So whether you’re gunning for a productive workday, a healthier lifestyle, or just a more organized existence, the routine page is your trusty sidekick.

Monthly Review

This little gem is like your personal time machine, whisking you back to the past month for a bit of reflection and forward-planning.

Picture this: you’re sitting down with your journal, flipping back through the pages of the past month. You’re taking stock of what went great, what went not-so-great, and what you might want to tweak going forward. Plus, you get to set your sights on the horizon, dreaming up goals for the month to come.

But wait, there’s more! It’s also the perfect place to put your Bullet Journal itself under the microscope. Is this system working its magic for you? Or maybe it’s time to shake things up with some fresh pages and formats.

The monthly review page is your secret weapon for keeping your progress towards personal and professional goals on track.

So whether you’re chasing fitness milestones, keeping a watchful eye on your spending habits, or plotting your career trajectory – the monthly review page gives you a crystal clear snapshot of your journey.

But here’s the best part: it’s not just about looking back. It’s about using those nuggets of insight to carve out a more productive, more rewarding future.

Brain Dump

It’s not just a tool, it’s a life-saver! Imagine having a dedicated space in your journal where you can offload every single thought, idea, task, and worry that’s been doing the jitterbug in your head. Sounds heavenly, doesn’t it?

Think of it as your brain’s personal release button, helping you dial down the stress and anxiety levels. The magic happens when you get everything out on paper. Suddenly, you can see it all clearly, sort through the chaos, and figure out what needs your attention.

And here’s the cherry on top: this little exercise can supercharge your productivity! By clearing out mental clutter, you’re making room for focus and identifying what really needs to be at the top of your to-do list. The brain dump isn’t just practical; it’s downright therapeutic when you’re dealing with mental overload.

So whether your schedule’s bursting at the seams, you’re tangled up in a tricky problem, or you just need to hit the mental refresh button – the brain dump spread is your go-to friend.

But remember, it’s not just about tidying up your thoughts; it’s about taking care of your mental wellness too.

Cleaning Tracker

The cleaning schedule page is a tool right at your fingertips designed to keep your living space shipshape and Bristol fashion. Exciting, right?

Imagine breaking down those scary cleaning tasks into bite-sized daily, weekly, or monthly chores that you can tackle with ease. No more staring down the barrel of cleaning your entire house in one go. Instead, it’s all about small, steady steps that add up to sparkling results over time.

And you know what? This spread isn’t just practical; it’s a lean, mean, efficiency machine! It’s your secret weapon for keeping your surroundings neat as a pin and welcoming.

So whether you’re juggling household chores like a circus performer, dreaming of a more organized abode, or simply on a mission to create a healthier living space – this page is ready to roll up its sleeves and get to work with you.

Remember, folks, Rome wasn’t built (or cleaned) in a day.

Pen Swatch

I’ve got a hot tip for all you beginners out there. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer: the pen swatch.

Imagine this scenario: you’ve got a brand new Bullet Journal in your hands – it’s pristine, untouched, just begging to be filled with colorful ideas. But there’s that little voice inside your head, whispering, “What if my pens bleed through? What if the colors look different on paper?”. We’ve all been there, right?

Well, fear no more, my friends! That’s where the pen swatch steps in to save the day. It’s like a test drive for your pens. You get to see exactly how they’ll perform on your journal’s paper. Will the color change? Will there be any bleeding or ghosting? The pen swatch will reveal all!

But wait, there’s more! It’s also a fantastic way to break in your brand new journal. We all know that feeling of staring down at a blank page, feeling a bit intimidated. Well, doing a pen swatch is like dipping your toes in the water before diving in. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to get started.

Bucket List

A bucket list spread is your personal roadmap to joy and fulfillment.

Life’s whirlwind of daily tasks has you spinning like a top. But amidst the hustle and bustle, there’s a beacon of light – your bucket list, a delightful reminder of all the things that make you smile.

Creating a bucket list is like planning a party for your future self. And guess what? The sky’s the limit when it comes to how you can organize it.

Maybe you’re a seasonal kind of person, with a summer list full of beach trips and ice cream dates, and a winter list bursting with cozy fireside reads and snowball fights. Or perhaps you’re more of a long-term planner, with a list for the year or even for landmark events in your life.

Whatever floats your boat, your bucket list is all about YOU. It’s a celebration of the things you love and a nudge to make time for them amidst the daily grind.

Grab your Bullet Journal, your favorite pen, and let’s start dreaming big. Remember, a bucket list isn’t just about doing things – it’s about savoring the things that make life truly worth living.

Future Log

You’ve got your Bullet Journal open, pen in hand, and you’re ready to conquer the world. Or at least, conquer the year ahead. And what’s your secret weapon? The Future Log, of course!

The future log is one of those fundamental pages in your Bullet Journal that acts like a personal crystal ball. It’s where you record all the important events, appointments, and goals for the upcoming year. Birthdays, anniversaries, vacations, big projects – they all find a home in your future log.

But it’s not just about recording events. The future log is your master plan, your blueprint for the year. It gives you a bird’s-eye view of what’s to come, allowing you to plan and prepare with ease. No more scrambling to remember dates or feeling overwhelmed by tasks. With everything neatly laid out in your Future Log, you’re in control.

Creating a future log isn’t just an organizational task, it’s a creative journey. You can play around with layouts, use your favorite colors, even add doodles and stickers. The only limit is your imagination.

Remember, with a future log, the future isn’t something that just happens to you, it’s something you shape with intention and enthusiasm.

Goals Page

Think of your goals page as a personal coach, cheering you on as you turn your dreams into plans and then into reality. It’s like having a motivational speaker, a life coach, and an organizer all rolled into one handy page.

Setting goals can be a bit like trying to catch a butterfly with a net – tricky and elusive. But with a dedicated goals page, you’ve got a safe place to pin those fluttering dreams down, examine them, and figure out a game plan.

2022 yearly goals spread in my Bullet Journal - Masha Plans

You’re not just scribbling down lofty ambitions (though dream big, by all means!). You’re breaking down each goal into actionable steps, setting timelines, tracking progress, and celebrating victories, both big and small. It’s like having a roadmap to your dreams. And who doesn’t love a good roadmap?

Now, creating a goals page isn’t just about being practical. Oh no, it’s also a chance to get creative! Draw, doodle, use stickers, experiment with colors – make it a page that inspires you to take action every time you look at it.

About Me Page

Oh, the “About Me” page! It’s like a little time capsule tucked away in your Bullet Journal, isn’t it? I must say, it’s one of my absolute favorite pages to create. Each time I crack open a brand new journal and that fresh-page scent hits me, I can’t wait to get started on my “About Me” page.

Why, you ask? Well, it’s a beautiful blend of self-reflection, memory keeping, and personal growth tracking. It’s like having a heart-to-heart with your past, present, and future selves, all at once.

Creating an “About Me” page is like painting a snapshot of who you are at the start of this particular journaling journey. You jot down your interests, your dreams, your quirks, your accomplishments – anything and everything that makes you, well, you!

But here’s the magic part: when you look back at these pages months or even years later, you see how far you’ve traveled. You’ll notice how some dreams have bloomed into reality, how some interests have evolved, maybe even how your handwriting has changed! It’s a wonderful feeling, trust me.

And let’s not forget the memory-keeping aspect. Your “About Me” page is a tangible piece of your history, a keepsake that you’ll cherish. It’s like having a series of self-portraits, but instead of using paint or clay, you’re using words and doodles.

And there you have it, my journaling comrades! Remember, your Bullet Journal is more than just a book full of pages. It’s a faithful companion, a silent cheerleader, and a personal historian all rolled into one. Each page you create is like a stepping stone on your adventure towards growth, fulfillment, and a life well-lived.

So, go ahead! Unleash your creativity, put pen to paper, and let your Bullet Journal be the guide on your personal journey. And remember, every stroke of your pen is a testament to your dreams, your progress, and the wonderful person that you are.

I can’t wait to hear about all the amazing things you’ll achieve with your Bullet Journal. Until next time, keep those pens moving, keep those dreams big, and most importantly, keep being YOU.

Free Course: Bullet Journaling For Beginners

Since you’re here, chances are you a beginner and might be a bit overwhelmed by all the information out there.

That’s why I’ve created this FREE course that will walk you step-by-step through creating your first Bullet Journal.

Simply sign up in the form below and once you confirm your subscription, you’ll get all the details on how to start your course.

More Resources

Are you looking for more information? There is a lot more to learn there for sure.

So here are a few blog posts for you to check out next:

>>> What pages are you using in your Bullet Journal? Let us know in the comments.

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And remember: Keep Bullet Journaling, and Don’t Be A Blob!

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