The Bullet Journal

The new year is almost here. So, this is a great time to share with you the Bullet Journal Method by Ryder Carroll. I have been using this method for five years now.

In its simplest form, it is journaling. But, it is so much more. The system is a highly personable organizational system. It can be your to-do list, sketchbook, notebook, and diary-all in one. Everyone’s bullet journal is unique.

There are four key concepts: rapid logging, collections, migration and indexing:

Rapid logging involves the use of short notation. For example, a task is a bullet, a completed task is an X, a task migrated to the future is a right arrow, and a scheduled task with a specific date is a left arrow. A note entry is denoted with a dash. And an asterisk denotes a priority task.

Collections consist of daily, monthly and future logs. A monthly log is a calendar page and task page. The calendar page consists of each date and day of the week in a separate row so that you can record events and tasks. The task page consists of tasks you want to complete that month, including any tasks migrated from the previous month.

To index your Bullet Journal, leave the first couple of pages for the index and fill the index in as you add collections to your journal. Of course, you will need to number the pages in your journal. Some journals, like the branded Bullet Journal, already come with the pages numbered.

I use a Moleskin journal and a Bic gel pen. I use my Bullet Journal as a diary and for things like tracking the days I workout, scheduling trials, planning trips, and recording what I do on holidays and for family birthdays. If you’re interested in learning more, there are many blogs, videos and tutorials on the internet.