Journaling is an enriching practice that requires minimal supplies to begin. Here’s a short guide to help you start your journaling journey with the right tools and gear.
You already know this, but you can obviously start journaling for free (basically) right now, if you want. Just grab some paper and a pen and start writing.
Journaling Supplies for Beginners
My Favorites (Quick Links): Journal: LEUCHTTURM1917 Hardcover Composition Small Journal for Idea Capture: Rhodia Rhodiarama Webnotebook (3.5 x 5.5) Pens: BIC Atlantis Retractable Ballpoint Pens (1.0mm) Highlighters: BIC Brightliner Highlighters (yellow) Sticky Notes: KICNIC Colored Page Markers Wooden Slant Board: ZIELER Easywriter Wooden Slant Board Book: The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
Journal or Notebook: Choose a journal that suits your style—blank pages for freeform writing, lined pages for structured thoughts, or dotted pages for bullet journaling.
My Favorite: Since 2023, I have been using a LEUCHTTURM1917 Hardcover Composition notebook for all my journaling, after more than five years of using Moleskines. I like the Leuchtturm more because it has wider pages, it comes with numbered pages and an index if I want to remember anything important, and because I wanted to experiment with other notebooks. I will likely keep using this notebook for the time being. The other notebook I use is a Rhodia Rhodiarama Webnotebook (the 3.5 x 5.5 size) for quick idea capture, bullet journaling, and quick writing on-the-go. In the past, I have used throwaway spiral pocket notebooks just as effectively for this purpose — but when spiraling comes off and pages rip out, I feel like I need to start a new one. The Rhodia has held up really well.
Pens and Pencils: Opt for smooth-writing pens or pencils that feel comfortable in your hand. Experiment with different colors and tip sizes to find what suits your preferences.
My Favorite: I am, admittedly, a pen snob. It took several years and a lot of testing and money wasting to find a pen I love. Now, I I exclusively use BIC Atlantis Retractable Ballpoint Pens (1.0mm) for journaling and any handwriting I do. The BIC Atlantis are my favorite because they are relatively cheap, nice to write with, and durable. The only downside I've found is that as these pens age, they sometimes leak ink on the page when I write. But that's why I order 50 at a time! (Seriously.) I do not like writing with pencils, because I press too hard on the page and wear them out quickly.
Erasers and Correction Tools: For those who prefer pencil or erasable pens, keep a good-quality eraser or correction tape handy for neatness.
My Favorite: I don't use pencils, so I don't have a recommendation here. That said, I remember being in school and using both great and horrible erasers, so I know a spectrum exists. If anyone has any recommendations, please share!
Highlighters or Markers: Optional but useful for emphasizing key points, creating headings, or adding color to your entries.
My Favorite: I did something really valuable (and at times painful) when I filled my tenth Moleskine notebook in 2022 — I went through each of them and read all the entries. Okay, fine. I only made it through six of them. But I used a highlighter to capture key sections from those journals that I wanted to copy over to my computer for personal growth and ideas for my writing I might revisit. I keep a box of BIC Brightliner Highlighters (yellow) on my desk and reorder in bulk the same way I order pens. Any highlighter will do, though. I also used colored sticky markers to easily find my pages.
(Optional) Wooden or Plastic Writing Slant Board: Great for preventing hand cramps and building your endurance as a journaler.
My Favorite: Okay, this is totally optional. But if your hand starts to hurt when you write, I totally recommend getting a writing board, especially if you want to make journaling a habit. Comfortability has been key for sticking with it for me. I've used both a plastic and wooden writing slant, and the truth is, you don't want a super cheap one. The plastic one I had (like this one) only lasted about ten months before the grips on the bottom wore down and it became too slippery to use. I'm currently using the ZIELER Easywriter Wooden Slant Board and if I'm being honest, I won't journal without it anymore. It saves my hand and makes journaling much more enjoyable.
How to Get Started Journaling
Choose Your Journal: Consider size, paper quality, and binding. Leverage online reviews or visit a stationery store to explore options.
My Favorite: Moleskines are popular; I shared the notebook I liked earlier. But truly, you could start a journal with some printer paper stapled together if you really want. The only way to figure out what you like and don't like is to get a journal and start writing. I've found having a nice journal to write in motivates me to write more. So maybe give yourself a small budget of $10 to $15 to get something you like.
Experiment with Writing Tools: Start with a basic pen or pencil and gradually explore different options. Find what feels comfortable and enjoyable for your writing style.
My Favorite: Experiment and find what you like!
Create a Comfortable Space: Set up a cozy, quiet space where you can write without distractions.
My Favorite: I've tried to be the guy who writes at Starbucks or outside at a bar. Every once in a while when I'm in the mood it's a nice change of pace, but these days, I only journal at my desk with a little bit of light music playing most of the time. Try to find a routine.
Begin Writing: Don’t worry about perfection. Start with a simple entry—describe your day, write about your feelings, or jot down your goals.
My Favorite: I was proud to fill ten Moleskines, as egoic and silly of a statement as that is. But handwriting 1,920 pages back and front was not as straightforward as it sounds. I went eight or nine months without journaling at one point. Which leads me to my final suggestion...
Aim for Consistency: Aim for regularity. Set aside a few minutes each day to journal, gradually building it into your routine.
My Favorite: There is a momentum to journaling, especially if you're a writer or creative person tackling other projects like I am. Many people, myself included, got into journaling initially following Cameron's The Artist's Way suggestion to write Morning Pages, which is three unfiltered pages of writing each day. You come to find the magic is in the daily ritual. I follow a slightly different approach now, but I recommend trying to find a consistent routine you like and sticking to it. The more days in a row you go, the easier it will feel, and eventually you will start to look forward to it!
Remember, the beauty of journaling lies in its flexibility. There are no strict rules—your journal is a personal space for self-expression and exploration.
Whether you’re drawn to creative journaling, expressive writing, or structured planning, finding the right journaling supplies can enhance your experience and make the process more enjoyable. Head over to these beginner journaling prompts to get started.
Is It Better To Write Or Type A Journal?
The short answer: there is no “better” or right way. But handwriting, in my humble opinion, is better if you’re comfortable with it.
While digital journals offer convenience and accessibility, there’s an undeniable charm and depth to handwriting that resonates deeply with the journaling experience. Handwriting, unlike typing, engages more areas of the brain (studies prove this), fostering a deeper connection between thoughts, emotions, and the physical act of writing. The tactile sensation of pen against paper also creates a unique rhythm, allowing thoughts to flow more freely and authentically onto the page.
Handwriting also encourages a slower pace, giving you ample time for introspection and mindfulness. You have to be deliberate about what you’re writing, which can help stir emotions or bring up interesting things to write about. The personal touch of handwritten journals—be it the varying penmanship, ink colors, or doodles—adds a distinctive, intimate quality to each entry, making the journal a tangible extension of oneself.
So while digital journals offer convenience, the depth, mindfulness, and personal touch afforded by handwriting make it our recommended choice for an immersive and enriching journaling experience. But hey, do whatever you prefer!