There is a reason why the suggested notebook for a Bullet Journal is a blank notebook. A blank notebook is easy to customize and modify to your own needs. While there is a framework set for the Bullet Journal Method, we must keep in mind that this is just a guideline. There is no format and no template to follow – and we should take advantage of this freedom by switching things up once in a while.
Make the Bullet Journal work for you
The Bullet Journal has a lot of components and modules and it may or may not work each individual. Starting with the basics is step one; the second step is to assess which modules were most efficient (and those that weren’t). Did you find using dots as task bullets effective? Then try to use a checkbox next time.
If something in the system doesn’t fit well with your lifestyle, modify it when you can. Don’t work for your bullet journal; make it work for you.
The system was designed to be flexible in both form and function to deal with our day to day but also phase to phase.
Ryder Carroll
Learn more about your personal style
Bullet Journaling can be a lot of things. It can be your planner, where you keep your to-do lists and track appointments. Your bullet journal can also a memory keeping medium or maybe a sketchbook. The thing is, when you start a bullet journal, you don’t really know how it’s going to turn out – unless you switch things up every once in a while.
It took me years to understand my bullet journal style. I started out with an extremely colorful bullet journal to a lean and minimalist. Don’t limit yourself to just experimenting between minimalist vs. maximalist style – you should allow yourself to explore even the types of notebooks. Maybe the standard dot grid A5 notebook isn’t your style – you could try a passport sized notebook or a Traveler’s Notebook.
Things change, people change
Certain circumstances in our lives can change how we live and who we are. As a bullet journalist, we must understand that just because we’ve mastered our bullet journaling style does not mean that this is something that we would use in our entire Bullet Journal journey. A career change can change the way you bullet journal. Some lifestyle changes can affect your bullet journaling habits as well. Don’t beat yourself up if something that worked perfectly before isn’t working for you right now. Search through the online bullet journal community for inspiration because maybe someone somewhere has the answers to the questions you seek.
A blank canvas is intimidating but it’s also very exciting. Yes, you will make a mistake and that’s okay. Each “mistake” should be a learning experience and not a sign of failure. The Bullet Journal Method isn’t meant to be monotonous, consistent, or stationary in form; it is supposed to be functional and to be your guide to living an intentional life.
If it ain’t broke…
But hey, if you feel that you have already found the style and technique that works best for you, you don’t have to change every so often.
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