You do NOT need to be an artist to begin a bullet journal!

Start simply. Set up your journal with an index, a future log, a monthly spread for the current (or next) month, and then add your day-to-day entries as you go.

There are no rules—only guidelines and suggestions.

If you skip a day (or 80) that’s o.k. When you’re ready, pick up where you left off. Don’t try to backfill.

Carry your bullet journal with you everywhere you go (and keep that goal in mind when selecting a journal). Now, I will not use a handbag that doesn’t fit my journal and my growing case of pens and markers.

Avoid the temptation to buy all of the things to go with your journal. There are plenty of stencils, markers, sticker packs, and layouts available. Wait until you have a need (and an established habit) otherwise, there is a very good chance your purchase will go to waste.

When you’re ready to add more flair or content—start with 1 or 2 markers.

I like Tombow brush, dual-tip markers. Online, they are usually sold as a set. BUT, at craft stores or art supply shops, you can often find them priced individually—a great place to pick a color or two to add. This helps you avoid the often-paralyzing decision of what color to use where.