By John Ray Villanueva
Journaling is currently one of the many obsessions of millennials. But those who can’t be bothered with writing long sentences but are fond of to-do lists have found a middle-ground in Bullet Journal.
In essence, Bullet Journal is a customizable organization system that lets you combine to-do lists, planner and diary in one notebook—using short and simple notes with corresponding bullets.
It got its name from the different types of bullets used for tasks, events and notes (i.e. dot bullet for tasks, circle bullet for events, dash bullet for notes). Compared to the traditional system, this helps you record different data easily and distinguish between them at a glance.
The idea of Bullet Journal was created by Brooklyn-based designer Ryder Carroll, who spent years developing the method so he could stay organized. He shared his discovery in hopes that it would help in carrying out a unique journaling process that would work for anyone.
Who should try Bullet Journal?
The Bullet Journal system is ideal for people who have to-do lists floating around their heads, or are into habit-tracking and want to be more organized. It is also suitable to those who would like to keep a journal but have trouble sticking to the habit.
Aside from its organization benefits, Carroll said, from feedbacks he has received, that Bullet Journal has helped change the lives of those with health problems, mental disorders or learning disabilities.
How to start a Bullet Journal
It’s important to know the basics of Bullet Journal.
The versatility and simplicity of this process begins with the tools: “bullet journalers” can use any kind of journal and writing material.
The content is composed of the Index or more popularly known as the table of contents that you update as the days go; the Daily log is basically the things you did and observations for the day; the Monthly log is the calendar and the things you need to do for the month; and the Future log which is the year-at-a-glance calendar where you jot down your events and goals.
Carroll said that Bullet Journal’s success comes from its ability to become a different tool to different people.
“If spending the time to embellish your Bullet Journal motivates you and brings you joy, then you’re doing it right. If you look forward to coming back to your book and feel like it’s your ally, then you’re doing it right,” opined Carroll.