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

Jan 31, 2026 Tags planners & journaling tips & guides

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.

white blank notebook

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:

To clear your head
To slow down
To remember small moments
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:

Different journaling styles
What kind of personality, goals, or lifestyle each style suits
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 (Scrapbooking)
Reflection or Goal Journal

Different Journaling Styles (And Who They’re For)

free writing journal style

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

free writing journal

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

Good fit if you…

Think a lot
Feel overwhelmed or restless
Want to clear mental clutter

Supports

Stress relief
Emotional processing
Self-awareness

How to start

“Right now, my thoughts feel like…”
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…

Are new to journaling
Like a little structure
Want guidance without pressure

Supports

Reflection
Habit-building
Personal insight

Example prompts

“Something small I enjoyed today…”
“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

Gratitude Journal

This style focuses on small moments worth remembering.

Good fit if you…

Want a calmer mindset
Feel emotionally tired
Prefer short entries

Supports

Mindfulness
Emotional balance
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

bullet journaling example

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

Good fit if you…

Love lists
Like staying organized
Want journaling to feel useful

Supports

Productivity
Habit tracking
Mental clarity

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

5. Creative or Visual Journal (Scrapbooking Style): For expressing without words

Creative or Visual Journal

A creative journal doesn’t rely only on words. It uses photos, paper, color, texture, and small objects to tell a story. This style is often called scrapbook journaling, but it doesn’t have to be elaborate or “perfect.” One decorated page, a ticket stub, or a handwritten note can be enough.

Good fit if you…

Think visually
Enjoy crafting or hands-on creativity
Want to capture memories beyond words

Supports

Emotional expression
Creativity
Playfulness and memory-keeping

5.1 Choosing a Journal for Scrapbook-Style Journaling

Not all journals work the same way for scrapbook-style journaling. The binding affects how easily you can add layers, photos, or keepsakes. Here are a few common options:

Ring or post-bound journals

Flexible and expandable. Good if you like rearranging pages or adding thicker elements.
Spiral-bound journals

Easy to work in and lay flat. Lightweight and great for casual or travel journaling, though pages are harder to remove.
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Strap-hinge or fixed-bound journals

More permanent and structured. Best if you prefer keeping pages in place once finished.

There’s no “best” choice. The right journal is the one that fits how you like to work and how often you plan to return to it.

5.2 Gentle Scrapbooking Tips (Without the Pressure)

You don’t need professional techniques to make meaningful pages. A few gentle principles can help your journal feel more balanced and enjoyable.

Choose a loose theme

One feeling, one moment, or one memory is enough.
Let one element lead

A photo, a note, or a small object can guide the rest of the page.
Leave breathing room

White space helps your page feel calm, not unfinished.
Use what you already have

Receipts, tickets, packaging, or handwritten notes often feel more personal than store-bought decorations.
Mix handwriting styles naturally
Your own handwriting, small notes, or simple lettering add warmth without effort.