Ah, back to school season. The time when new college and some very excited high school students are out shopping for school supplies to aid them in conquering the year that awaits them. Most students load up shopping carts with binders, notebooks, and those fancy mechanical pencils that are always coveted (you know the ones that I'm talking about). But the one thing that often gets overlooked is the planner. A planner is an essential part of the college shopping process and, unlike high school, college doesn't provide you with one. That leaves the struggle of finding the perfect planner on the shoulders of the students. With so many options to choose from, which planner do you pick? The answer is simple and it's currently very trendy on the internet for all you hipsters out there: the the bullet journal.
What is a bullet journal, you may ask? Well, the bullet journal is basically the love child of a planner, a to-do list, and a journal. In my humble opinion, it is the greatest form of planning to ever exist. Not convinced? Let me enlighten you on why you should start a bullet journal.
1. Bullet Journals are cheap
As a college student, I know how important money is for us. $10 is better spent on a month's worth of ramen than a planner from you local office supply store. With prices ranging from $10 to $75, planners are expensive. Bullet journals, on the other hand, are super cheap. You can get a notebook for around $1 at the local dollar store or on Amazon, and the only other supply you need is a pen (which I'm sure you can find in your dorm/apartment/parent's house).
2. You choose the layout
Traditional planners keep you to a rigid system, while bullet journals allow you to customize each week to what you're feeling and what will be the most productive for you. Want to try an hourly schedule for classes and appointments? You can do that. Want to just have a running checklist for a week where you're really busy? Go for it. Bullet journals have no rules, so feel free to do whatever the heck suits your fancy.
3. You can be creative
If you like to be creative, welcome to the #bujo community. Bullet journals are an outlet for creativity, whether you're gluing in pictures, using fun colors, or sketching around your weekly plans. Let your creativity flow, because your bullet journal is all yours.
4. Or you can keep it simple
If creativity isn't your thing, you can stick to a minimal approach. Bullet journaling has no rules. Do what works for you.
5. It doesn't have to be just a planner
The beauty of the bullet journal is its ability to be whatever you want it to be. Yes, it can be a planner and a to-do list, but it can also be so much more. Use it to track your sleep schedule or write down what makes you happy. Write down your favorite song lyrics, use it as a journal, or use it as a place to draw. Fill the pages with class notes, class syllabi, or anything else that strikes your fancy. Let your creativity flow.
6. It's easier than it seems
It's easy to start a bullet journal. Much like with 4, your bullet journal doesn't have to be a Pinterest-worthy creation. Just pick up a pen and a notebook and get to work. You'll thank me later.
7. It's really fun
When I started bullet journaling, I didn't realize how much fun I would have. What started out as a system that was only used for organization has now become a place for me to write, doodle, track, and plan. I enjoy creating new pages every week, and the ability to change the layout from week to week keeps me from ever getting bored with my bullet journal.
So there you have my reasons why everyone should start a bullet journal. If I somehow didn't manage to convince you or you want more information on bullet journals, watch this video:
No matter what your planning style is or what you've got going on, pick up a pen and a notebook. You'll thank me later.
