How to Start a Journal
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.
Journaling isn’t about having the right words—it’s about creating a small, personal space where thoughts can land gently.
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 only need a reason—however small.
That reason might be:
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To clear your head
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To slow down
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To remember small moments
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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:
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Different journaling styles
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What kind of personality, goals, or lifestyle each style suits
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A quick and gentle way to begin, even if you don’t know what to write yet
Journal Styles we're introducing in this blog...
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…
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Think a lot
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Feel overwhelmed or restless
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Want to clear mental clutter
Supports
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Stress relief
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Emotional processing
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Self-awareness
How to start
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“Right now, my thoughts feel like…”
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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…
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Are new to journaling
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Like a little structure
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Want guidance without pressure
Supports
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Reflection
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Habit-building
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Personal insight
Example prompts
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“Something small I enjoyed today…”
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“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…
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Want a calmer mindset
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Feel emotionally tired
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Prefer short entries
Supports
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Mindfulness
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Emotional balance
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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…
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Love lists
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Like staying organized
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Want journaling to feel useful
Supports
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Productivity
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Habit tracking
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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…
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Think visually
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Enjoy crafting or art
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Find writing limiting
Supports
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Emotional expression
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Creativity
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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…
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Enjoy reflecting
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Like seeing progress over time
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Prefer weekly or monthly journaling
Supports
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Self-growth
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Motivation
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Direction
Try prompts like
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“Something I learned recently…”
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“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!
Happy Journaling! Shop our recommended collection for starting your journaling adventure with a limited discount going on now.
