How to Start a Creative Journaling Practice with Purpose

Whether you're starting creative journaling because you are in LOVE with all of the gorgeous journal spreads on Pinterest (and you want to make some too) or you're just looking for an accessible way to make sense of the chaos of your daily life, thoughts and experiences...then creative journaling offers a sanctuary for you!

Before you dive into any kind of creative journaling, let's talk about something crucial—why you're journaling in the first place.

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1. Start with Your "Why"

Before you even pick up any art supplies, markers or pens - take a quick moment to reflect on your reasons for wanting to journal.

Are you looking to declutter your mind and feel more balanced?

Maybe you want to track personal growth and personal development?

Perhaps you want to remember the state of your inner world 10 years from now?

Or maybe even tap into your inner creativity? (because maybe you dream of being some kind artist one day)

For many people it's just a hobby to pass the time (and that is totally OK too)

Understanding your "why" gives your journaling practice a sense of purpose, turning it from a random scribbling session into a life changing habit. Your reason could be as simple as wanting to document your life, or as profound as exploring your innermost thoughts, experiences and feelings.

Whatever it is, knowing your "why" will keep the fire going and give you the motivation to make your journaling journey meaningful.

2. Start Somewhere & Trust the Process

One of the best things about creative journaling is its versatility. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach—journaling is as unique as you are.

At the very least you are going to need a journal (here are some tips for choosing a journal) and a pen to write with. The thing about creative journaling is you are going to want to add your unique flavor. If you don't know where to start when it comes to supplies, here's a simple creative journal tool kit that I started with.

There's an entire world of products, ideas and methods for journaling creatively out there!

Some people print, cut and paste images into their journal, some people just use colorful markers, others use more technical tools like rulers, stencils and grids and some even just use stickers.

Now that you have chosen your favorite supplies to journal with, here are a few types of journaling paths to consider. You can turn these into their own journals or use them as pages in a journal. You make the rules!

• Bullet Journaling: A favorite journaling method created by Ryder Carroll, that is popular among the planning community. This is a great route for those who want to be more organized. It’s a blend of a planner, to-do list, and diary, offering structure while still allowing for creativity.

  
  

• Art Journaling: If words and writing just aren’t your thing, express yourself through doodles, sketches, watercolor paints, or mixed media. It’s a creative way to tap into your emotions without using traditional writing.

  
  

• Junk Journaling: This is a visual journal style made from "junk" and unexpected materials such as coupons, tickets, receipts, menus, stickers etc.
  

• Bible or Spiritual Journaling: If you're a person of faith, a journal is a wonderful place to reflect on spiritual experiences.
  

• Media Journaling: This is a relaxing way to help you keep track of your favorite movies, music, shows and books
  

• Wisdom Journaling: A page or journal that you can record profound quotes, sayings, mentors, or things you want to remember in the future.

3. Practice Consistency (Whatever that Means for YOU)

When it comes to journaling, the pressure to be 100% consistent and "perfect" can actually become a toxic cycle.

You can absolutely benefit from a creative journaling practice the more time you put into it, but it's probably not the best idea when it's at the expense of using your energy into making every single page a work of art. Here's a secret: You will have some spreads you won't like. Maybe some you even hate, specially when first starting. This is normal.

The idea that you must create every day, or at a certain time, can turn a beautiful, introspective and sacred practice into just another chore. Instead of forcing yourself to journal out of obligation, allow it to be something you turn to whenever it feels right.

Journaling should be a joyful and liberating creative experience, not a rigid routine.

Some final creative journaling tips:

• Don’t be afraid to try different types of journaling until you find what resonates with you. What works today might change tomorrow, and that’s perfectly okay.

  
  

• Your journal is a safe space. Create without judgment and let your true self shine through. The more authentic you are, the more rewarding your journaling experience will be. (If you're concerned about privacy, consider something like a safe, lockbox or keep your journal in a secret space to protect your information from unwelcome hands.)
  

• Look for a journal that excites you—something you’ll look forward to opening each day. Whether it’s a minimalist notebook or something more colorful, a small notebook or a large binder, pick what feels right for you. If the options in the store don't move you, then there's wonderful Youtubers out there that can teach you how to make your own.
  

Journaling is more than just words or images on a page—it’s a portal to your creativity, a space where your imagination can roam free. Let your journal be your playground, a place where you can explore, create, and discover new versions of yourself. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to journal—just your way.