Do I have to keep reminding you about how much I love notebooks? I hope not because at this point it should be plain to everyone that I’m an unrepentant notebook addict, and you can’t make me feel bad about that.
At any rate, I’d like to add the Bullet Journal to your list of next notebooks to consider.
A Loaded System
The Bullet Journal, technically speaking, is actually a system or philosophy by which you can organize any notebook. Check it out:
I’m currently using a modified version myself as a test, and so far, I like it. I’m not using the full method yet because it looked like it would take a lot of time to get set up, and I wasn’t sure if it would work for me and my hectic thought patterns. So far, so good! Looks like I might be investing more time into this soon, and with that time investment, I just might need a new notebook to invest in.
Enter the official Bullet Journal Notebook:
For $20, you can get a quality notebook with over 200 ink-proof pages designed to be the last notebook you’ll ever buy because it was designed not only as a notebook but as a tool to actually organize your life. The pages are gridded, which is aimed at helping you create the symbols inherent to the Bullet Journal system. Similarly, the notebook includes index pages, page numbers, a system guidebook, etc., which makes the Bullet Journal system even easier to adopt. Finally, the journal lays flat, which should be required of all notebooks in the twenty-first century.
You can purchase the Bullet Journal from their store or learn how to use the system with a notebook of your own choosing for free at their website.
[HT my super friend KC Proctor]
Eric Dye says
Dang. That’s sharp.
Phil Schneider says
Right? I think I’m going to need to invest even more in this system.
Rachel Blom says
Looks like a system that’s partially based on or inspired by the Getting Things Done method. I like it and I especially love the look of the notebook, but it does feel like a lot of ‘system’. I have nothing against analog systems (on the contrary – there’s something very fulfilling in physically writing down stuff) but this feels like a lot of writing, noting, and rewriting/copying. Have you tried the actual system?
Phil Schneider says
It does seem like a lot, but for some folks, it’s essential. I’m still using a modified, lighter version, and then I’m going to be tinkering around with the Spark Notebook. Maybe after that, I’ll get around to a deep investment in the Bullet.
Derek says
The great thing about it is that your commitment to writing is as much or as little as you want it to be. The better your memory; the less you can write and the more minimal your notes will be. In my case, I need to write down more rather than less. The other point is to commit to one place to keep things; as opposed to smartphone + home PC + work PC + bit of paper + Post-its etc.
Phil Schneider says
Great points, Derek. Do you use Bullet?
Bipin says
Good review! I liked your personal introduction as well.
Phil Schneider says
Thanks, Bipin! I appreciate the comment!