You've probably heard of it: bullet journaling. Maybe you saw beautiful photos of it on Instagram, or a friend enthusiastically told you about it. But what exactly is it? And is it something for you? In this blog, we explain it. In a simple way, without any fuss. Because bullet journaling doesn't have to be complicated at all.
What is bullet journaling?
A bullet journal is a notebook that you organize yourself. There are no fixed pages, no pre-printed weekly layouts, and no boxes that you have to fill in. You decide what goes in it and how it looks.
The name 'bullet journal' comes from the short, concise notes - bullets - that you use to write things down. Think of a small dot or dash for each item on your list. Quick, clear, and to the point.
A bullet journal is at the same time your diary, your to-do list, your personal diary, and your notebook. Everything is in one notebook, and you determine the balance.
Where does bullet journaling come from?
The bullet journal was created by American designer Ryder Carroll. He developed the system for himself because he struggled with planning and maintaining focus. In 2013, he shared his method online, and it immediately took off. People around the world began using bullet journals, from those who simply want to keep track of their tasks to creative minds who turn it into artwork.
The beauty of Carroll's method is that it is very flexible. There are basic principles, but no strict rules. This makes bullet journaling suitable for almost everyone.
What can you use a bullet journal for?
This might be the best feature of a bullet journal: you can use it for just about anything. Here are a few popular applications:
Keeping track of daily tasks
Write down what you want to do that day in the morning. Check off what you have done, move what is left undone. Simple and effective.
Plans for the week or month
Create a weekly overview or monthly calendar on a blank page. Write down appointments, birthdays, and deadlines exactly as you wish.
Capturing ideas
Do you have an idea for a project, a trip, or a recipe? Write it down. A bullet journal is the perfect place for random thoughts that you don't want to lose.
Track goals
Do you want to move more, use less social media, or read a new book each month? Create a tracker and keep track of how it goes. You can make this as simple or as detailed as you want.
Keeping a diary
Some people write a few sentences every day about how their day was. It helps to reflect for a moment and clear your mind.
Being creative
A bullet journal can also simply be a place to draw, color, or decorate. There is no rule that says it has to look neat or functional.
How do you start bullet journaling?
Starting is easier than you think. You actually only need two things: a notebook and a pen. That's all.
Most bullet journalists work with a dotted notebook. A dot grid journal. The dots help you draw straight lines and divide blocks, without making the page look cluttered or busy. But a blank or lined notebook works just fine if you start with that.
Step 1: Choose a notebook or bullet journal
Choose something you like. If it looks nice, you'll pick it up more often. That sounds simple, but it really makes a difference.
Step 2: Create an index
The first few pages are used as a table of contents. Write page numbers in your notebook and note what is on each page. This way, you can quickly find everything.
Step 3: Start with a monthly overview
Write the name of the month at the top of a page. Put the dates underneath and note the most important appointments or tasks for that month. It doesn't need to be more than that.
Step 4: Create a daily page
Write down the date and below it, note what you want to do that day or what has happened. Use a bullet, dash, or arrow for each point. Done.
Step 5: Adjust what doesn't work
After a few weeks, you'll naturally notice what works for you and what doesn't. Eliminate what you never use and add what you miss. Your bullet journal, your rules!
You don't have to be creative
A common reason why people don't start bullet journaling: "I can't draw" or "My handwriting isn't nice enough." Forget that. A bullet journal is not an art project that you need to show the world. It is a personal tool for yourself.
The beautiful, colorful spreads you see online are great for inspiration, but they are not the norm. Your bullet journal can consist of a list in block letters, and that's perfectly fine. What matters is that it works for you.
Which notebook do you choose?
If you're starting with bullet journaling, you want a notebook that writes well and looks nice. At BacktoBasiX, you'll find three brands with beautiful bullet journals that are perfect for both beginners and advanced users.
The Pimpelmees Bullet Journals have a warm, romantic appearance and are available in the stylish collection lines Mono, Botanical, and Marigold. Whether you prefer a minimalist cover or a floral, botanical style, there is always a Pimpelmees bullet journal that suits you. The inner pages are dot grid, exactly what you need to work in an organized manner.
Do you prefer a fresh, contemporary look? Then the Pepa Lani Bullet Journals something for you. Pepa Lani stands for young and urban design, with beautiful prints and a polished appearance. The name means 'paper and air' in Hawaiian. And that feeling of space and freedom is reflected in the design.
The well-known, colorful brand Kitsch Kitchen also has bullet journals that appeal to many people. Kitsch Kitchen Bullet Journals are brightly colored and radiate the Mexican style that you expect from this brand.
Bullet journaling: start small, have a big impact
The bullet journal is one of those things that can make your life a bit more organized and peaceful, without requiring a lot of time or money. You start with a blank notebook and a pen, and you gradually build it up to something that fits you perfectly.
Whether you use it to keep track of your busy week, follow your goals, or just have a place for your thoughts: a bullet journal works. Not because it’s perfect, but because it’s yours.
So grab a nice notebook, write the date on the first page, and start. The rest will follow naturally.