Why are we failing to keep up with our Bullet Journal

A bullet journal is supposed to be a flexible, personal tool—but sticking with it isn’t always easy.

“I don’t have time“

“I keep forgetting”

Trust me – I am also guilty of not using my bullet journal regularly.

So where could we have possibly gone wrong?

🎨 Complicated spreads

Scrolling through social media, it’s easy to get caught up in the perfect, artistic spreads. But recreating those takes time—time you might not have every day. Overcomplicating your layouts can quickly make journaling feel like a chore instead of something helpful. Keeping it simple can make the habit easier to sustain.

Tip: Stick to minimalist spreads. Use only the essentials: a calendar, task list, and a space for notes. Save the creative extras for when you feel inspired, not obligated.

Try the Official Bullet Journal notebook here!

❔ No clear purpose

Why are you using your bullet journal? If you don’t know, it’s hard to stay consistent. Some people use it to plan their days; others track goals or reflect on their thoughts. If you’re not clear about your “why,” it’s easy to lose interest.

⏰ Inconsistent routines

Like any habit, journaling needs a regular spot in your day. Skipping one day can turn into skipping a week, and soon, the habit is gone. Whether you journal in the morning or at night, pick a time that works and stick to it. Consistency helps make it second nature.

Tip: Attach journaling to an existing habit, like having your morning coffee or winding down before bed. Pairing it with something you already do makes it easier to remember.

🚀 Unrealistic expectations

A bullet journal won’t fix your life overnight. Expecting it to magically organize your schedule or boost your productivity can lead to disappointment. Focus on small wins instead of big transformations—it’s a tool, not a miracle worker.

Tip: Set one simple goal per week, like tracking water intake or listing three tasks each day. Gradual progress is better than overwhelming yourself with everything at once.

🎁 No instant rewards

Digital apps give you reminders, streaks, and badges. A bullet journal? Not so much. The reward is subtle: seeing your plans and thoughts on paper. If you’re someone who thrives on external motivation, you might need to create your own system of rewards, like treating yourself for a week of consistent use.

Tip: Track your journaling streak with small symbols (e.g., stars or dots) in your journal. It’s satisfying to see those streaks grow—and it’s an easy visual motivator.

🕒 Not enough time

Life gets busy. Journaling can feel like one more task on your to-do list, especially if you try to make every spread perfect. But journaling doesn’t have to take an hour—five or ten minutes is enough. Keep it short and practical to fit it into your day.

Tip: Set a timer for 5 minutes and write only what’s most important—like tomorrow’s tasks or a quick gratitude list. When time feels manageable, it’s easier to commit.

Bullet journaling works best when it serves you, not the other way around. Simplify your approach, define your purpose, and build a routine that fits your life. The point isn’t to make it perfect—it’s to make it work for you.