How to Start a Journal: Simple Styles to Find What Works for You

Starting a journal often feels harder than it sounds. I've been there, bought a new notebook, a new pen, and turned over the first page...but what should I write?

Suddenly, the page feels very quiet.

Should it be meaningful? Consistent? Beautiful? If you’ve ever felt stuck like this, you’re not alone.

The truth is, journaling isn’t about having the right words. It’s about creating a small, personal space where thoughts can land gently—without pressure, expectations, or rules.

There’s no single correct way to journal. Some pages are neat. Some are messy. Some are only a few lines long. All of them count.

Many people imagine journaling as daily, thoughtful writing filled with insight. In reality, journaling works best when it feels easy to return to. There are also many popular prompt journaling methods, such as the 3-2-1 Method (3 joys, 2 self-appreciations, 1 memory) and the 3-3-3 Journal Method (use 3 simple prompts, write for 3 minutes, 3 times per day). Once you start testing different methods, you'll figure out which one suits you the most.

You don’t need a perfect system to start journaling. You only need a reason—however small.

That reason might be:

1. To clear your head
2. To slow down
3. To remember small moments
4. To feel a little more grounded

Once you know why you want to start journaling, the how becomes much softer.

This guide will help you explore:

1. Different journaling styles

2. What kind of personality, goals, or lifestyle each style suits

3. A quick and gentle way to begin, even if you don’t know what to write yet
    

Below are the journal styles we’re introducing in this blog. You don’t need to choose just one. Many people move between styles depending on their season of life, mood, or energy level.

• Free Writing Journal
• Prompt-Based Journal
• Gratitude Journal
• Bullet Journal
• Creative or Visual Journal
• Reflection or Goal Journal

Different Journaling Styles (And Who They’re For)

1. Free Writing Journal: For minds that are always a little busy

This style is simple: write whatever comes to mind, without fixing or judging it.

Good fit if you…

1. Think a lot
2. Feel overwhelmed or restless
3. Want to clear mental clutter

Supports

1. Stress relief
2. Emotional processing
3. Self-awareness

How to start 

1. “Right now, my thoughts feel like…”
2. Set a 5-minute timer and keep writing

This journal doesn’t need to be reread. It’s more like a quiet exhale.

2. Prompt-Based Journal: For when the blank page feels intimidating

Using prompts gives your writing a gentle direction.

Good fit if you…

1. Are new to journaling
2. Like a little structure
3. Want guidance without pressure

Supports

1. Reflection
2. Habit-building
3. Personal insight

Example prompts

1. “Something small I enjoyed today…”
2. “Lately, I’ve been thinking about…”

You can reuse the same prompt again and again—each answer will be different.

3. Gratitude Journal: For noticing quiet, everyday goodness

This style focuses on small moments worth remembering.

Good fit if you…

1. Want a calmer mindset
2. Feel emotionally tired
3. Prefer short entries
4.  

Supports

1. Mindfulness
2. Emotional balance
3. A gentler perspective

You only need one line. On difficult days, even “I rested” is enough.

4. Bullet Journal (Functional Style): For practical minds and busy days

This style blends planning with reflection using short notes and lists.

Good fit if you…

1. Love lists
2. Like staying organized
3. Want journaling to feel useful

Supports

1. Productivity
2. Habit tracking
3. Mental clarity

This doesn’t have to be decorative. Simple, honest lists work beautifully.

5. Creative or Visual Journal: For expressing without words

A mix of drawings, colors, stickers, and occasional words.

Good fit if you…

1. Think visually
2. Enjoy crafting or art
3. Find writing limiting

Supports

1. Emotional expression
2. Creativity
3. Playfulness

One decorated page can say more than paragraphs.

6. Reflection or Goal Journal: For gentle self-check-ins

This style looks back and forward with intention.

Good fit if you…

1. Enjoy reflecting
2. Like seeing progress over time
3. Prefer weekly or monthly journaling

Supports

1. Self-growth
2. Motivation
3. Direction

Try prompts like

1. “Something I learned recently…”
2. “What I want more of this month…”
    

If you're still not sure which journaling style you should test out, take our 1-minute "What Jounaling Style Are You?" quiz to find out!

Take the quiz now

Happy Journaling! Shop our recommended collection for starting your journaling adventure with a limited discount going on now.

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