Journaling is one of the best habits you can develop for self-reflection, creativity, and even stress relief. But getting started—and sticking with it—can be a challenge. Maybe you’ve bought notebooks in the past that are now gathering dust, or you’ve never quite figured out the best way to use one. Well, today’s the day you finally start your journaling journey!
With the right notebook (like a beautiful made-to-order notebook from Denik), a few solid strategies, and a little creativity, journaling can become a fulfilling and lasting habit. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Choose the Right Notebook (Because It Matters!)
Your journaling experience starts with choosing a notebook that you love. If your journal doesn’t excite you, you’re less likely to use it—simple as that. That’s where Denik notebooks come in. With custom journals featuring hundreds of artist-designed covers, or even the option to create your own, you can get a notebook that truly feels like you.
Not only can you personalize the outside, but you can also choose the inside pages to suit your needs. Want traditional lined pages? Prefer blank pages for sketching? Love dot grid for bullet journaling? Or maybe you’re into eco-friendly kraft paper? With Denik, you get to customize every detail to match your journaling style.
And let’s talk about structure. Are you a bound layflat notebook person who likes seamless writing across both pages? Or do you prefer the flexibility of a wire-bound notebook that lets you flip pages with ease? Either way, Denik has options that fit your preferences.
Step 2: Pick Your Journaling Style
The beauty of journaling is that there are no rules. You can make it whatever you want! Here are a few popular styles to consider:
Traditional Journaling
This is your classic, write-about-your-day kind of journaling. It’s great for self-reflection, gratitude journaling, or brain-dumping thoughts before bed.
Art Journaling
If words aren’t enough, add some color! Art journaling is all about expressing yourself with drawings, paintings, collage work, or doodles. This is a perfect option for those who want a more visual journaling experience.
Junk Journaling
A little messy, totally creative, and completely free-form—junk journaling lets you paste in ticket stubs, magazine cutouts, stickers, fabric scraps, or anything else that inspires you. It’s a fun way to make your journal a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Mix It Up!
There’s no need to stick to just one style. Many journalers blend writing, art, and scrapbooking elements to create a unique journal that evolves over time. Experiment with different styles and find what feels best for you!
Step 3: Make Journaling a Habit (Tips from Atomic Habits)
One of the biggest challenges of journaling is making it a consistent habit. James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, shares some excellent strategies that can help:
1. Start Small
Don’t pressure yourself to write pages upon pages every day. Start with just a sentence or two. If you feel like writing more, great! But keep it manageable so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.
2. Attach It to an Existing Habit
Link your journaling to something you already do. For example:
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Write in your journal after you brush your teeth at night.
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Start your morning with five minutes of gratitude journaling while sipping coffee.
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Reflect on your day before you turn out the lights.
3. Make It Easy
Keep your notebook somewhere visible and accessible. The more friction you remove, the more likely you are to use it.
4. Reward Yourself
Make journaling something you look forward to! Light a candle, play soft music, or brew a cup of tea before you start. Over time, your brain will associate journaling with relaxation and enjoyment.
Step 4: Make It Fun with Notebook Decoration Ideas
A beautiful notebook deserves to be decorated! Whether you’re using an artist-designed notebook from Denik's partnered artists or a custom journal you designed yourself, here are some fun ways to make it even more you:
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Stickers & Washi Tape – Add a pop of color and personality.
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Hand Lettering – Practice calligraphy or creative fonts.
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Doodles & Sketches – Make the margins fun!
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Pressed Flowers & Polaroids – Add a natural or vintage touch.
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Magazine Clippings – Great for vision boards or themed pages.
Step 5: Give Yourself Permission to Be Imperfect
One of the biggest journaling roadblocks is the fear of “messing up.” Here’s the truth: your journal doesn’t have to be perfect. You don’t need perfect handwriting. You don’t have to write every day. You don’t need a grand, profound entry every time.
Your journal is yours. Let it be messy, raw, creative, or simple—whatever you need it to be at the moment.
Final Thoughts
Journaling is a journey, and the most important step is just getting started. With Denik’s custom journals, you can create a journal that feels personal, inspiring, and exciting to use every day. Whether you’re writing, sketching, collaging, or a mix of everything, your journal is a reflection of you—so make it something you love!
Ready to start your journaling adventure? Grab a Denik notebook, find your style, and let your creativity flow!
