Avoiding Overwhelm When Creative Journaling (Let's Keep it Messy, not Stressy)

Jumping into creative journaling is supposed to be a joyful, flowing and easy-as-it-looks process, but let’s be real—there are times when the mess of random paper scraps, washi tapes, ugly stickers and all sorts of ephemera laying around becomes overwhelming. Sometimes it feels more like a chaotic craft thunderstorm.

If you've ever come close to just selling all your supplies, quitting journaling in frustration or are unsure how to move forward ("where do I even begin?!" may sound familiar), then you’re so not alone!

Here are some tips to help you keep your junk journaling or other creative journaling process messy but not as stressy.

Friendly Reminder: Some of the links in this post may be Amazon affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me continue to create content that inspires, and I genuinely appreciate it! 🌟

1. Limit Your Supplies

We’ve all been there.

You walk into the arts and craft store for “just one thing” and come out with a cart full of stickers, stencils, and that irresistible pen/marker set.

You may not like to hear this but too many options can turn creative journaling into a stressful "where do I put all this?" situation.

Then when you have a mountain of papers stacked everywhere it can become harder to start a creative session.

Everyone is different though, imagine my surprise that I've met people who thrive in organized clutter! I think that is so cool that some people thrive in this.

For me, it simply doesn't work. This is just my experience and of many others as well. I firmly believe an organized space is a happy space.

Here’s the secret: you can enjoy all the fun things but you really don’t need everything, specially all at once.

Before starting a session, choose a few go-to supplies (I recommend this starter kit) and stick to just those supplies until you feel more experienced with creative journaling.

Seems ironic, but by narrowing down your options, you actually give your creativity more space to breathe. Plus, your wallet will thank you.

2. A Little a Day Keeps the Journaling Overwhelm Away

The idea that you need to finish a spread or even an entire journal in one sitting? You really don't have to. 

Journaling is meant to be a marathon, not a sprint. (And a metric that you can only set for yourself.)

Some days I can barely get through one section, other days I can make multiple spreads. When it comes down to it, it really is about energy. Taking care of yourself in other areas of life can have an impact in your creative journaling output.

Whether it’s doodling a quick flower on the corner of a page or jotting down a random thought, or doing a one sentence a day challenge it all helps. Doing a tiny bit every day adds up over time.

So, don’t put pressure on yourself to produce a "masterpiece" in one go. It’s okay if it grows slowly.

Consider asking yourself why you're journaling in the first place. By getting really clear on your intention behind creative journaling, inconsistency and dread of journaling can become a thing of the past.

3. Come Within—Only Peek at Other's Work Sparingly

Pinterest and Instagram are bursting with stunning journal spreads that make you want to reach for your markers and fancy supplies ASAP.

But it’s sooo easy to fall into the comparison trap, which can turn inspiration into intimidation.

Keep in mind that some people may not be creating for the same reasons you are, so instead, try to focus more on what YOU want to create.

Peek at what others are doing for a little inspiration (try to pick out what you like and what you don't like as you are doing so).

Keep the majority of your creative energy focused inward. Look at past spreads and go beyond your journal, see areas of your life or patterns that can be improved upon (whatever that means to you) for future spreads.

This is your journal, not anyone else’s, and there’s no wrong way to express yourself.

4. Have a Dedicated Space for Your Creative Journal Magic

Creating can be hard if you don’t have a dedicated space for your sessions.

Having a dedicated space—whether it’s a small desk, a corner of a room, or even a portable box you can move around—helps your brain shift into “creative mode” more easily.

An entire room is ideal, although its not always accessible for everyone.

If its challenging to journal at home, consider going to places like libraries, coffee shops, boba places or parks as a journaling escape.

When your supplies are organized and readily available, you're less likely to feel overwhelmed by the thought of getting everything out just to work for 10 minutes. (I use these 4x6 boxes to organize all of my small journaling supplies, stickers & magazine cutouts, makes it so much easier to store.)

Plus, it’s easier to clean up, and let’s be real, that means more time to journal and less time looking for that lost roll of washi tape!

Remember: Less is More

When it comes to journaling, remember—less is more. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by supplies or ideas, start with just one thing. Whether it’s using a favorite prompt card, pulling out a single marker, or grabbing that one perfect roll of washi tape, simplifying your approach makes it easier to get started.

And once you push past that initial overwhelm, you'll find it’s easier to relax and let your creativity flow. Next time you feel like your supplies are taking over, take a breath, pick just a few, and watch how quickly the fun returns!