Journaling is a hobby, a passion, and a really helpful habit. It supports creativity, emotional wellbeing, and self-expression. For many people, it's an undiscovered outlet. One that’s just waiting to be explored.
But how do you actually start journaling? And more importantly, how do you stick to it?
If you're curious but haven't yet taken the leap into keeping a journal, this guide is for you. We’ll cover what journaling is, how to start in a way that feels easy, and how to make it a lasting part of your routine.
What Is Journaling?
Journaling is writing things down. Your thoughts. Your feelings. Your experiences. Quotes, ideas, memories. Anything that lives in your mind and heart. It can be used for self-reflection. For processing emotions. For getting to know yourself better.
Sometimes it’s like a chat with yourself. It can be raw and honest or light and creative. There’s no right or wrong way to do it.
At first, the words might feel stuck. Like a tap that’s hard to turn. But each time you write, the flow gets easier. The more you do it, the more natural it feels. Over time, journaling becomes a calming process. One where your thoughts and creativity spill onto the page.
It might not feel like that on day one. And that’s okay. Like any new habit, it takes time.
What Do I Need to Start Journaling?
Just blank pages and a pen. You can use any notebook. Some are labelled “journals.” Others are just regular notepads or diaries. Choose what feels right.
If you’re not sure where to begin, try a guided journal with prompts. These ask helpful questions to get your thoughts flowing. They're a great option for beginners who want a little structure.
Prefer something more open? A simple lined notebook is perfect for traditional journaling.
If you like visuals and creativity, look into bullet journaling. This style lets you use stickers, washi tape, doodles, or anything that helps you express your day. A dot grid or plain page journal works well for this.
You can also journal digitally. But we believe that taking time away from screens can be grounding. Writing by hand helps you connect with your thoughts in a deeper way.
Try journaling outside, in the park or at the beach. It turns the process into a mindful ritual.
How to Start Journaling
If you're wondering how to start journaling, the key is to keep it simple.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to be creative?
- Am I trying to process my emotions?
- Do I want structure and guidance?
Pick a style that fits your goal. Then start small. Really small. Even one sentence every few days is enough.
Write about your day, how you're feeling, or what stood out.
You can also use gentle prompts to guide you:
- What’s your mood today?
- How did you sleep?
- What would make tomorrow better?
If you want to get creative, doodle the day of the week, add a sticker, or use colorful pens. Journaling doesn’t have to be serious.
For visual inspiration, Pinterest has loads of ideas and templates for bullet journaling.
How to Stick With Journaling
Building a new habit is tough. Research shows it can take between 18 and 254 days for a habit to stick. On average, around 66 days of repetition helps it become part of your routine.
Here are four tips to help you stick to journaling:
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Keep it close
Carry your journal with you. Pick one that's small and light, with a pen clipped on. If it’s nearby, you’re more likely to use it. -
Make it visible
Put your journal where you'll see it every day. Try your nightstand, desk, or sofa table. Keep a pen next to it so there’s no friction when you want to write. -
Pair it with another habit
This is called habit stacking. Link journaling to something you already do, like after brushing your teeth or making tea. For example, if you always put on comfy socks before bed, keep your journal in the sock drawer as a reminder. Write a few lines as soon as those socks go on. -
Keep it light
Don’t force yourself to write pages every night. That can feel overwhelming. Start small and relaxed. The goal is to enjoy the process.
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We hope this helped you understand what journaling is and how to get started. Most of all, we hope it showed you that journaling can be whatever you want it to be.
Whether it’s creative or reflective. Daily or once a week. Messy or minimal.
Your journal is your space.
To get started you can shop our notebooks here, purpose journals here and pens here.
