By hello / May 2, 2025
Journaling styles for beginners aren’t one-size-fits-all—and that’s the best part. Whether you want to feel less overwhelmed, get your life together, or just brain-dump all the chaos in your head, there’s a style of journaling that actually fits your vibe.
This isn’t your grandma’s “Dear Diary” moment (unless she journals like a queen, in which case, slay). Let’s break down some beginner-friendly journaling styles to help you figure out what hits best.
✨ P.S. If you’re totally new to this, check out our full Our Ultimate Beginner’s guide to journaling first—it’ll help you build the habit and keep it going.
Why Journaling Actually Works (Like, Scientifically)
Not to sound like a motivational poster, but journaling literally rewires your brain. And yes, we’ve got the receipts:
- Less stress, more chill – A study from the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that expressive writing helps you regulate emotions and handle stress better.
- Boosts creativity – Harvard Business Review says journaling helps your brain slow down enough to think clearly and creatively.
- Clarity & self-awareness – According to the American Psychological Association, journaling helps with emotional regulation and better decision-making.
Now that you know it’s legit, let’s match you with your journaling soulmate.
1. Freewriting: The “Brain Dump” Vibe Journaling Style for Beginners
No rules, no structure, no pressure—just vibes. Freewriting is perfect if your brain feels like a web browser with 47 tabs open.
Best for:
- People who overthink what to write (aka all of us).
- Writers stuck in a creative block.
- Anyone craving a judgement-free zone.
How to try it:
- Set a timer for 5–10 mins.
- Write anything. Even if it’s just “I don’t know what to write.”
- Don’t edit. Don’t pause. Just pour it out.
2. Bullet Journaling: For the Aesthetic Overachiever
Love a good to-do list? Obsessed with aesthetic spreads on TikTok? Bullet journaling = part planner, part journal, part creative playground. Total cozy-control hybrid.
Best for:
- List-lovers and productivity stans.
- Anyone tracking habits, moods, or goals.
- Those who like mixing creativity with organization.
How to start:
- Use symbols (✔ for done, → for moved, ✖ for canceled).
- Add sections like “to-dos,” “habit trackers,” and “mood logs.”
- Make it your own—doodles, washi tape, stickers? Go off.
Wanna learn more about bullet journaling setups? Check out this cozy journal inspo to get those ideas flowing.
3. Gratitude Journaling: A Feel-Good Journaling Style for Beginners
If toxic positivity gives you the ick, this is different. Gratitude journaling is about finding real things to be thankful for—tiny joys, kind moments, even the fact that your coffee hit just right.
Best for:
- Anyone who wants to shift their mindset.
- People struggling with anxiety or burnout.
- Beginners who want something simple and uplifting.
How to try it:
- Write down 3 things you’re grateful for every day.
- Be specific! (“My sister’s random ‘I love you’ text” > “my family.”)
- Reflect on how those things made you feel.
This one’s backed by science and heart—our Gratitude Journaling for Beginners guide breaks it all down.
4. Reflective Journaling: A Deeper Option Among Journaling Styles for Beginners
This one’s for the introspective babes. If you’re the type to rehash convos in the shower or find meaning in every moment, reflective journaling helps you turn experiences into growth.
Best for:
- People navigating big life stuff.
- Self-growth junkies.
- Anyone who wants to make sense of their past (and learn from it).
How to start:
- Pick a moment that stood out recently.
- Ask yourself: What happened? What did I feel? What did I learn?
- Write about how you’ll carry that lesson forward.
5. Stream-of-Consciousness: Brain on Paper
This is like freewriting, but more “let your brain take the wheel.” Let the weird, the random, the deep, the chaotic all spill out. No punctuation? Cool. Random topic switch? Go for it.
Best for:
- People craving mental clarity or self-insight.
- Writers looking for creative fuel.
- Anyone feeling emotionally bottled up.
How to try it:
- Set a timer for 10–15 mins.
- Write exactly what you think, as you think it.
- No judgment. No re-reading. Just let it out.
6. Visualization Journaling: Journaling for Beginners Style for those Who Dream Big
If you’re a vision board girly (or guy or nonbinary baddie), this is your jam. Visualization journaling is like scripting your dream life into existence.
Best for:
- Goal-setters and dreamers.
- People into manifestation and mindset shifts.
- Anyone who wants to get clear and intentional.
How to try it:
- Write about your dream day like it already happened.
- Example: “I woke up feeling calm, did yoga, and landed my dream client.”
- Add affirmations to back it up: “I attract what’s aligned for me.”
Need help setting goals that actually work? Check our vision journaling guide next.
✦ How to Make It a Habit (Without Forcing It)
Starting is cute. Sticking with it? That’s where the magic happens. Here’s how to build a journaling habit that lasts:
- Pick your time – Morning mind dump or nighttime wind-down? Pick your vibe.
- Keep it short – A few lines is enough. Don’t gatekeep yourself.
- Create a ritual – Candle, playlist, hoodie. Set the scene.
- Find your crew – Share wins with friends or join our Deep Thoughts Club for prompts & ideas.
Real Talk: Just Start Somewhere
There’s no perfect way to do this. Try a few styles. Mix them up. Invent your own. Journaling is about meeting yourself on the page—and that’s always worth showing up for.
Already journaling? Share your fave style or a prompt you love in the comments. Let’s turn this solo habit into something shared.
