How to Get Started With Bullet Journaling

If you’ve ever wanted to feel more organized, focused, and creative all at once, bullet journaling might be the system you’ve been looking for. Originally developed by Ryder Carroll, this flexible method combines planning, goal-setting, and personal reflection into one simple notebook.

Whether you’re a seasoned list-maker or someone who’s never kept a planner before, learning how to get started with bullet journaling is easy—and you can personalize it to fit your lifestyle from day one.

To help you build better habits alongside this new journaling routine, you might also enjoy How to Create a Morning Routine That Works or Tips for Starting a Home Workout Routine.

What Is Bullet Journaling?

Before diving into how to get started with bullet journaling, it helps to understand what it is. At its core, a bullet journal is a customizable organization system. Unlike pre-printed planners, it gives you full control over the layout and content. The basic framework includes:

  • Index: A table of contents for easy reference
  • Future log: A place to jot down events and goals for upcoming months
  • Monthly log: An overview of each month’s events, tasks, and goals
  • Daily log: Space to track day-to-day tasks and notes
  • Collections: Custom pages for things like habit trackers, book lists, or gratitude logs

This open-ended structure is what makes bullet journaling both powerful and deeply personal.

Step 1: Choose Your Tools Wisely

When thinking about how to get started with bullet journaling, many people wonder what tools they need. Fortunately, you don’t have to invest in anything expensive. All you really need is:

  • A notebook (dot grid is most popular, but any kind works)
  • A pen you enjoy writing with

Over time, you might add colorful markers, washi tape, or stencils to customize your pages. But when starting out, keep it simple to avoid getting overwhelmed.

Step 2: Learn the Key Symbols (Bullets)

The “bullet” in bullet journaling refers to the symbols used to organize entries. The original method uses:

  • • for tasks
  • o for events
  • – for notes
  • × to indicate a completed task
  • > to migrate a task forward
  • < to schedule a task later

Getting comfortable with this shorthand is one of the first steps in learning how to get started with bullet journaling. These symbols help you quickly scan your pages and stay on track without needing complex layouts.

Step 3: Set Up Your First Few Pages

One of the most common challenges when starting a bullet journal is figuring out what to include. Begin with the basics:

  • Index on page one
  • Future Log covering 6-12 months
  • Monthly Log for the current month
  • Daily Logs starting from today

Don’t worry if your handwriting isn’t perfect or your lines are a bit crooked. The key is functionality—not Instagram-worthy aesthetics. Progress matters more than perfection.

For guidance on building good habits alongside journaling, visit Small, Meaningful Upgrades to Your Daily Routine.

Step 4: Experiment With Collections

As you become more comfortable, try adding collections—custom pages tailored to your interests or goals. Popular ideas include:

  • Meal planners
  • Workout trackers
  • Budget logs
  • Mood charts
  • Gratitude journals
  • Reading or podcast lists

These pages not only keep your life organized, but they also help you reflect and grow over time. In fact, many bullet journalers say collections are where creativity and mindfulness truly flourish.

Step 5: Make It a Habit

Knowing how to get started with bullet journaling is only part of the journey. To make it stick, create a consistent routine. For example:

  • Spend 5–10 minutes each morning planning your day
  • Use a quick nightly review to migrate tasks or jot down reflections
  • Set a weekly time to review goals and prepare upcoming pages

With regular use, your bullet journal becomes more than a notebook—it becomes a personal assistant, accountability partner, and creative outlet.

Final Thoughts: A Tool That Evolves With You

Learning how to get started with bullet journaling is all about taking the first step—and allowing the system to evolve along with your needs. There’s no right or wrong way to do it. Some people lean heavily into structure and habit tracking, while others use it primarily for mental clarity and creativity.

Start small, stay consistent, and remember: this is your space to organize, reflect, and grow.

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