If you’ve ever searched for a journal how to guide and felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of tips, prompts, and rules—you’re not alone. Starting a journaling practice can feel like trying to navigate a maze, but with the right steps, it can become a habit that enriches your life.
I had a friend who constantly encouraged me to start working out. I have never wanted to start, cause it felt so daunting. Where to go, which sport to start, what equipment do I need? All the anxiety from questions made me quit before I even started.
So I completely understand if you feel lost and unsure where to begin with journaling. Don’t worry, in this blog post, we are discussing it all, from journaling essentials to different types of journaling and what is the first thing you need to do. We are packing it up to 10 actionable steps, that can take you from a confused beginner to a journal master.
This blog post is all about journal how to.
The first step I took when I decided to start working out was defining why. So, Why do you want to journal?
List your reasons (mental detox, processing emotions, tracking goals, generating ideas, saving memories, planning…) and circle the one that feels most beneficial for you right now.
Here, I really want to stress: don’t try to save the world with your writing. Start with one goal and expand as you gain confidence. This way, you won’t take on more than you can handle and can successfully implement a new habit.
For my workout journey, my top priority was simply moving my body.
I created a simple guide to help you decide on your journaling goals and pages. You can download it for free HERE.
Step 2: Choose Your Journaling Style
Now, it’s time to narrow your focus. For me, this meant choosing a sport—I picked dancing.
What type of journaling do you want to try? Keep your “why” in mind as you decide.
Here are three types of journaling that cater to different needs:
- Reflective Journaling: Perfect for deep thinkers. Explore emotions, experiences, or even dreams.
- Planning-Focused Journaling: Ideal for go-getters. Use it to set goals, track habits, or organize tasks.
- Creative Journaling: Great for artists and writers. Experiment with doodles, poetry, or storytelling.
I suggest reading an in-depth explanation of what a specific journal entails to select the one that suits you the most. This post Journal Writing Format Explained: How to Write a Journal will give you a clearer understanding of each category and help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and goals.
Journal Writing Format Explained: How to Write a Journal
The beauty of journaling lies in its flexibility. You can combine styles to create a journal that perfectly suits your needs.
Step 3: Pick the Right Tools
Yes, tools matter. For me, finding comfortable and stylish gym clothes made me feel like I belonged.
Similarly, choose journaling supplies that make you excited to start.
Here are some of the journaling supplies that make me feel like I belong.
Moleskine Classic Hardcover Dotted Journal
Timeless design, durable construction, and subtle dot grid pages for layouts and designs.
Sakura Pigma Micron Pens
Archival-quality ink, precise lines, perfect for detailed work.
Tombow Dual Brush Pens
Vibrant colors, flexible brush tip, and a fine tip for detailing.
Vintage Scrapbook Stickers
Made from washi papers, the kid includes tweezers to help peel the stickers.
Those are my must-haves. If you want more options to choose from, head to my blog post Must-Have Bullet Journaling Essentials | The Ultimate Guide
Step 4: Start with a Clear Framework
Time for the nitty-gritty: What’s the proper way to write a journal?
Truthfully, there isn’t one. But having a framework can make a big difference, especially for beginners. It’s like structuring a workout routine—you don’t just walk into the gym without a plan.
Here are some ideas:
- Write the date and location.
- Set an intention:
- Do you want to reflect on your life?
- Use journal prompts.
- Organize your day/month/year.
- Brainstorm.
- Write freely.
- Reflect and close:
- Write an encouraging message to yourself.
- List five things you’re grateful for.
- Highlight your most important goals.
The structure will reduce you fear by giving you a clear plan.
Having an example to guide your writing journey can be incredibly helpful. While the specific entries may vary depending on the style of journaling, here’s an example of a personal journal entry:
Seeds of Growth: Noticing the Small Changes Leading to Growth
You can find inspiration from the pages of my personal journal HERE.
Step 5: Build a Consistent Routine
Now it’s time to build the muscle. This requires repetition and consistently showing up. Setting a specific time and place is essential.
Pick a time that fits seamlessly into your day, like right after your morning coffee or before bed. Over time, you’ll start to crave journaling rather than dread it.
Step 6: Start Small and Stay Flexible
Beginners at the gym never start with heavy weights, and neither should you.
Don’t plan to organize your entire life or tackle deep-rooted beliefs right away. Start small—organize your day or reflect on your current feelings. Give yourself five minutes instead of committing to an hour.
Journaling isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up. Skip the pressure of crafting a Pulitzer-worthy entry and focus on authenticity.
Step 7: Incorporate Personalization
Your journal should feel like you. Add doodles, stickers, or pressed flowers. Use colors to highlight emotions or key points.
Personalizing your journal increases your emotional attachment to the practice, boosting your motivation.
Set your own tone of writing.
Here I list 12 really cute and creative ideas for personalizing your yournal. Check it out!
12 Cute Journaling Ideas to Make Your Pages Pop
Step 8: Use Journaling to Track Progress
Did you know that writing down goals increases the likelihood of achieving them by 42%?
Track your progress in different ways:
- Highlight passages where you’ve matured emotionally or solved a problem.
- Use mood logs to monitor your mental health through different seasons.
- Keep gratitude lists to recognize the beauty in your life.
- Create progress charts for hobbies or skills.
You can also use some of the premade trackers and save yourself some time and planning:
Step 9: Reflect and Revise Your Practice
Finally, don’t forget to look back. Revisiting old entries can be eye-opening. It helps identify patterns, celebrate wins, and learn from past mistakes. Plus, it’s incredibly motivating to see how much you’ve grown.
If something isn’t working, change your approach. Reflection is the key to deciding when it’s time to handle a heavier weight or add another goal to tackle in your journaling.
