Journaling is a well-known tradition that promotes the healthy practice of recording your thoughts, feelings and experiences. History is full of noteworthy people who have used this concept to document their observations and hopes for the future, so that they can better understand themselves as well as the world around them.

People keep journals for all kinds of reasons — as distractions, as a way to catalogue personal history. But in all honesty, there are so many more types of journaling to explore outside this “classic” system.

A fair number of journal keepers have used their entries to record fitness regimes and to inspire progress. Some artsy types have even been using journals to catalogue their passion for graphic design or photography. There are so many types of journals out in the world to explore, and I'm hoping this article will expand your horizons. Maybe you'll even decide to pick up a journal of your own once you find the perfect type for you!

Bullet Journaling

The first model will be a treat for anyone who enjoys organizing and planning. The Bullet Journal is great for students especially, as it relies on a customizable system that allows you to keep track of your daily To-Do lists, while also planning for your future.

If you’re interested in this system, the video linked here is an amazing tool to get you started. Also, their website is a really cool place to explore, so I'd definitely recommend taking the time to check it out!

Art Journaling

The second model you could explore is called art journaling. This type is more freeform, less word heavy. It’s creative and unique to every individual journal. Entries can vary from magazine cut outs with poems marked out in sharpie, to water color sunsets, to some cute Washi Tape from Target you use to stick your favorite Gogh piece on a blank page.

These journals often favor people who are more visually-inclined. But even if you’re not an art major, you can still have loads of fun finding the perfect materials to stick onto the page to make it special. Some of the best entries I’ve seen include ripped out magazine pages, scraps of colorful paper, watercolor creations — even some gorgeous, pressed flowers! Art journaling is such a great way to get the creative juices flowing.

Classic Journaling

The third main model people talk about is an infusion of “classic” journaling with your interests! The possibilities are endless with this type of journal and no two are the same. For example, some people like to analyze their dreams, so they keep a dream journal. Others may like to read, so they keep a reading journal where they write their favorite quotes from something they’re reading currently, or a book that caught their eye at the store.

If you’re curious about other common types, this list can be helpful in finding the right journaling fit for you!

1. Bucket List Journal

Write about all the things you want to do in your life, the places you want to see and more.

2. Gratitude Journal

This involves writing down the little things in life that make you smile. Often, this journal can help battle against a negative mindset, pushing you toward being more appreciative and happy.

3. Inspiration Journal (also known as a “Commonplace Book”)

Keeping a collection of inspirational quotes and/or song lyrics to give you a motivational push whenever you might need it.

4. Letter Journal

Write an entry to a specific person or place. This can be therapeutic once you get the hang of it!

5. List/Log Journal

As often as you find time, write down what you did in a day. This is a great way to start journaling for newbies because as time goes on you might add on more detail and descriptions to each entry.

6. Observation Journal

Writing or drawing your experiences and feelings.

7. Project Journal

This can apply to any sort of project, whether it’s a book idea or a school assignment. You can write down successes, progress reports or some simple due dates to keep track of. Make it as detailed as you want it to be!

8. Scrap Journal

This is the kind of journaling I mostly do. It involves picking up scraps from your daily life and then writing little notes about what part they played in your day! Paste in wrappers, stickers, receipts or leaves, the list goes on!

9. Sketch Journal

For the artsy folks out there, keeping a journal to keep sketches in can be so much fun. It's also a great way to look back on how much you've progressed!

10. Spiritual Journal

Sometimes it helps to write down prayers or explore what you may believe through writing in this type of journal.

11. Travel Journal

Keep a personal record of an exciting trip to a new place full of interesting people, food and experiences! I know I’m going to be keeping one of these for when I have the opportunity to study abroad.

In the end, keeping a journal is something I truly enjoy doing and I hope my enthusiasm has encouraged you to pick up the practice too! Whether you decide to take up letter journaling where you write letters to your past self on how you wish you picked up journaling sooner, or if you decide to join me in scrap journaling where we collect junk that might be better off recycled, I wish you the best!