My 4 Tips For Starting a Bullet Journal

At the beginning of this year I decided to take the plunge and start my first proper bullet journal. Last year, I had an unofficial bullet journal where I trialled different spreads and layouts. During this time I was able to get to grips with the system and wrap my head around this new form of planning. I don't have a lot of experience on my side but in the process of starting up, I did pick up on a couple things that I thought would still be good to share. Here are 4 things that helped me when starting my bullet journal. 

1. Research Before Purchasing Anything
When it comes to finding your ideal supplies, I recommend watching comparison videos on Youtube. You'll not only see the stationery being tested side by side but also get a better sense for the wide variety of notebooks and pens on market. Try not to get too caught up in what everyone else in using. Establish what you're hoping to get out of your bullet journal as this will help make sure you're investing in the right products for you. 

2. Play Around With Different Equipment
It's commonly said that all you need to bullet journal is a notebook and a pen but that doesn't go to say that you can't incorporate other creative supplies into your planner. Washi tape, stickers, stamps and stencils can also be used in bullet journalling. Be creative and don't be afraid to experiment with different methods and techniques. The more enjoyable you make your bullet journalling, the more likely you'll commit to it. 

3. Get Inspired Regularly 
Pinterest and Instagram are treasure troves of bullet journalling inspiration. Whenever you feel like you're starting to lose momentum with your planning, scroll through BuJo accounts on social media. If you're bored of your current set up, look for new collections to add or different layouts for your weekly spreads. Sometimes it helps to change things up a bit so don't feel like your journal has to have a consistent theme/aesthetic.

4. Have a Draft Book
Whenever you're planning it's always good to have some scrap paper close by so that you can make any rough sketches if need be. A draft book allows you to test different handwriting styles, headers, borders and other types of doodles. If you see something online but don't know if you'll be able to execute it correctly, you can just give it a go in your second notebook. That way, if it doesn't look the way you want it to, there's still no harm done to your actual journal.  

Thanks for reading! What are your thoughts on bullet journalling? Let me know in the comments below!