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Bullet journaling is an excellent tool that helps me relax and unwind. 📖 I also turn to my bullet journal when I’m feeling bored, as I enjoy seeing how many different lists I can create. Today, I want to share the five topics I started with when I began my bullet journal, which I affectionately call my “Book of Lists.”
What journal should I use?
Since you’re just getting started, why not try a basic lined, sturdy journal notebook at first? These smaller 5.5 x 8 inch notebooks are what I used to get started and I love how they fit into any bag to go along with me. I chose the calming pastel colors, but there are other options to choose from as well. Click here to see what they look like and give them a try!
Bullet Journal Topic #1 – Gratitude
Creating my gratitude list was a simple yet powerful decision. Reflecting on my blessings and the things I’m thankful for each day keeps me grounded and reminds me that life is ever-changing and beyond our control. 🙏 The people I cherish include my children, my husband, 👫 my sister, my parents and in-laws, my grandparents, cousins, and nephews. And yes, my cat holds a special place on this list as well. 🐈
Bullet Journal Topic #2 – Positive Affirmations
There are times when life can feel truly overwhelming, as if we’re stuck on a struggle rollercoaster. I understand how important it is to acknowledge those feelings and to remind ourselves of the positive aspects in our lives. Negative thoughts can easily take hold, especially when we don’t address them, and I know many of us have worked hard to overcome that challenge. In those moments when we need a little encouragement, I find comfort in my list of positive affirmations. Some of my favorites include:
– I choose happiness today. – The world needs me. 🌎 – I am worthy of my dreams. – Today is a fresh start.
“Journaling is like whispering to one’s self and listening at the same time.”
Mina murray
Bullet Journal Topic #3 – What are my strengths 💪
I consistently maintain a list of my strengths because it empowers me to acknowledge what I excel at. 👩🎓 Recognizing these strengths is a powerful confidence booster. I don’t use this list to brag; rather, it serves as a reminder of my natural abilities, especially on those days when I might feel a bit off track. 🤪 Have you ever felt as though you made a complete fool of yourself? No? Neither have I (clears throat). Reflecting on this list and adding to it is an essential practice for positive self-reflection and self-care.
Bullet Journal Topic #4 – What are my weaknesses
It’s perfectly okay and normal to have weaknesses; nobody is perfect! In fact, this is one of my favorite lists because it keeps me humble and highlights areas where I can improve. My number one weakness is public speaking. 🗣 I cannot stand to speak in front of a crowd—I literally break out in hives on my neck, and my face turns bright red. 🥵 Within my list of weaknesses, I also like to include a sub list called “Ways to Improve,” so I can see how my weaknesses can be overcome and recognize the potential for growth. For my public speaking weakness, I’ve noted a few tips for myself. One is to practice in the location where I will be speaking, and another is to organize my thoughts and create a clear outline. I have this list, and someday, maybe I’ll put it to good use! 😉
We all need a go-to list of stress-reducing activities! No matter how great our jobs or families are, we all feel stressed at times. It’s so important to find ways to manage that stress and avoid a mid-life crisis—seriously! A few of my favorite activities to unwind are doing yoga, 🧘♀️ trying my hand at meditation, and practicing deep breathing exercises. Just ten minutes is usually enough for me. ⏳ You’d be surprised how much laughing can help, too! 🤣 Oh, and I love updating my to-do lists—yes, it’s true! For me, saying the Serenity Prayer is a great reminder that I’m not in control, even if I don’t let my husband in on that secret! Ha!
I hope you’ve found some inspiration here to start your bullet journaling adventures. Leave a comment below to let me know how it’s going, or a tip for me for my journal!
