How to explain Bullet Journaling to friends without overwhelming them

The discovery and adoption of the Bullet Journal method transformed my approach to productivity when I first started using it. While I don’t bullet journal as actively as I once did, the system taught me valuable organizational skills that still influence how I manage my life. The system was so beneficial during my peak usage that I still recommend it to friends who might benefit from its structure.

During my more active bullet journaling days, I would get plenty of questions about it:

• “What’s that?”
• “Huh? Bujo?” – when I’m using shorthand with fellow enthusiasts
• “What’s a bullet journal?”
• “Isn’t it time consuming?”
• “Do you bring it with you all the time?”
• And occasionally: “Why is your bag so heavy?” (Because my journal is always with me)

I still enjoy answering questions about bullet journaling (perhaps a bit too enthusiastically after a few glasses of whiskey). I’m especially glad when people ask me directly rather than Googling “bullet journal” on their own – the fancy, artistic designs that fill search results can make this simple productivity system seem intimidatingly complex.

Here’s my approach to explaining bullet journaling in accessible terms that won’t scare off potential users who might actually benefit from it.

📓 Call it what it is – a planner or notebook

When introducing my bullet journal to newcomers, I often simply call it my “planner” or “notebook” because that’s essentially what it is. These familiar terms make the concept immediately relatable without introducing jargon.

Explain that it’s a method, not a special product

This might be the biggest misconception about bullet journaling. Many people think they need to purchase a specific type of journal to get started. While Ryder Carroll (the system’s creator) does offer an official Bullet Journal notebook, its purpose is primarily to teach the method through built-in instructions.

When explaining the concept, I start with: “It’s a flexible planning system that helped me organize my life when I was using it consistently.” I follow up with the basics: “You begin with any notebook, write down today’s date, and use different bullet points to mark tasks and notes.” This is when I might share a link to the “Getting Started” video on bulletjournal.com for those who want to learn more.

Emphasize that ANY notebook works 🙂‍↕️

Newcomers don’t need to purchase a dotted notebook like most enthusiasts use. The system can be implemented in any notebook – lined, grid, or even in an existing dated planner. Emphasizing this accessibility removes a potential barrier to entry.

Address the time commitment misconception

“I don’t have time to bullet journal” is a common objection. I explain that the system isn’t meant to be time-consuming – it only appears that way because writing each day individually seems like a big task. In reality, rapid logging (the core practice of bullet journaling) actually saves time and notebook space. It also offers the flexibility to skip days when life gets busy.

👀 Show your past journals, but with a disclaimer

When showing my old journals (like those when I was starting out), I always add: “I used to spend more time with this system and tailored it to my specific needs, so don’t feel overwhelmed or feel you need to copy it.” I point beginners toward the basic Bullet Journal format that demonstrate the system in its simplest form.

Suggest starter supplies that won’t break the bank

For friends who express genuine interest, I recommend affordable starter supplies:

• Leuchtturm1917 A5 notebook (the most popular choice, but not necessary)
• Sakura Pigma Micron pens (great for clean lines that don’t bleed)
• Zebra Mildliners (subtle highlights that enhance organization)

But I emphasize that any notebook and pen they already own will work perfectly fine to start.

📱 Share digital alternatives for the tech-inclined

For friends who prefer digital tools, I mention that the bullet journal method can be adapted to apps like:

• Notion (highly customizable)
• GoodNotes (for tablet users who still want the handwritten feel)
• Obsidian (great for knowledge management)

The core principles remain the same, even when the medium changes.

Emphasize that simplicity is the foundation 💪

The most important point I make is that the core Bullet Journal system is intentionally simple. I explain the basic components:

• Index (to find things easily)
• Future log (for long-term planning)
• Monthly log (for the month ahead)
• Daily log (for day-to-day tasks and notes)
• Collections (for grouping related information)

The artistic spreads seen on social media are optional creative expressions, not requirements¹.

Acknowledge it’s not for everyone

Just like any productivity system, the Bullet Journal method isn’t universal. Some friends connect with it immediately, while others prefer different approaches. I respect their preferences and avoid pushing too hard – the best systems are the ones people actually use consistently.

The beauty of the Bullet Journal lies in its adaptability. Whether someone needs a simple task manager or a comprehensive life organization system, the method provides a framework that can grow with their needs. Even though I’ve moved away from daily bullet journaling myself, by explaining it in straightforward terms without the intimidation factor, I’ve helped several friends discover a tool that genuinely improved their productivity and organization.

1. The No-Art Bullet Journal: Productivity without the pretty pages ↩︎