Your Biggest Enemy is an Uncontrolled Mind
Your thoughts are scattered. Your emotions run amok. Your memory? Unreliable at best. Enter – the Bullet Journal Method.
Bullet Journaling isn’t just a planner – it’s a mental command center that helps you track, process, and problem-solve.
And when everything seems to suck, it can help remind you that it really doesn’t – you just tend to forget the good stuff.
What Bullet Journaling Really Is (And Isn’t)
Contrary to popular belief, the Bullet Journal Method wasn’t meant to be a DIY planner system. It’s a tool for mindfulness, clarity, and reflection.
Also contrary – You don’t need any fancy layouts – Just a pen, notebook (analog is key!), and whatever elements work for you.
Some people even use two notebooks alongside each other – a portable pocket notebook for on the go, and a larger journal for deep dives.
Core BuJo Elements That Actually Improve Your Life
- Basic system and symbols. Keep it functional – tasks, events, notes, & feelings.
- Daily highlights and/or gratitude. Negativity bias is real (your brain overlooks the good to protect you from the bad) – combat it by tracking your wins, even small ones. (Bonus points if you turn your highlight log into relevant song or show titles!)
- Habit trackers. When motivation wanes, proof of progress will encourage you to practice discipline & resilience.
- Braindumps & freewriting. Mental decluttering = less stress and better focus (more on that next week!)
- Goal reflections. Are you moving toward the life you want? (More on that in a couple weeks!)
- Interstitial journaling. Practice mindfulness by taking a pause throughout your day to log your real-life moments in real time (who, what, where). Your future self will thank you.
There’s Always a Way to Deal With It : BuJo Problem Solving
Instead of freaking out, work through it using these prompts:
- What’s bothering you? (Name it.)
- Why is it bothering you? (Dig deeper.)
- Do you have control over it?
- Yes? Brainstorm real solutions, then create a mini action plan.
- No? How can you reframe your perspective and reactions? Control what you can.
Get Your Mind Under Control
Bullet Journaling isn’t about being organized just for the hell of it – it’s about taking control of your thoughts, actions, and emotions. You can’t trust your brain to remember everything or to be rational in every moment.
Write it down. Track what matters. Improve your life.
Have a favorite bullet journaling hack? Drop it in the comments!
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And here’s a couple related things I’ve found interesting lately :
An article about reflections in your Bullet Journal
A video with a helpful explanation of daily logging / interstitial journaling
Rock on!
zen BLITZ 