Most important principle
Find a journal YOU like
The goal is to find a journal you WANT to write in, so the most important rule is choosing a style and construction that resonates with you.
Your journal should feel like a welcoming space that invites you to write, whether that's a simple notebook or a gold-embossed beauty.
TL;DR - TWO GOOD OPTIONS
If you'd prefer to skip the research, I've picked out two well-constructed options for you on Amazon. (no affiliation):
Utilitarian Style – Simple solid-cover ruled notebook from LEUCHTTURM1917.
Magic-Spell Style – Gold-embellished design from Peter Pauper Press.
What to look for - Key functional qualities
- Sturdy cover that protects pages from bending
- Reinforced binding intended for frequent use
- Pages that lay flat when open
- Ruling (lines) spaced for your handwriting size
- Robust paper weight to prevent bleed-through
- Cream or white paper that's easy on the eyes
- No extras like quotes or flourishes, unless you're into that
Helpful but not essential
- Built-in bookmark ribbon
- Elastic closure band for transport
- Pockets in interior cover for notes or keepsakes
- A cover that calls to you at this time in your life
- Accommodating pet
AVOID
- Tight bindings that make the book try to pull shut while you're writing
- Spiral bindings that can snag or bend
- Paper that's too thin so pen bleeds through
- Journals so precious you're afraid to use them
- Too big (awkward) or too small (cramped) - for how YOU like to write
Shopping in Person
I recommend shopping in a store if possible. This allows you to test how the journal feels in your hands, examine quality directly, and see colors accurately including the shade of the paper.
Journals are sold in most:
- Bookstores
- Stationery shops
- Office supply stores
You may also find them in home supply stores like Target.
Shopping Online
Make sure you know what size you want and double-check dimensions!
Look for customer reviews mentioning paper quality and bindings.
A reliable source with a wide selection of journals is Peter Pauper Press.
Begin the Year with Clarity
I’m hosting a free, one-hour Start Your Journal workshop on
Saturday, January 10 at 11am Eastern.
All are welcome. Register here.
Your journaling instructor
Hosted by Elisabeth Andrews, MPH, bringing 30 years of journaling knowledge and more than 20 years as a wellness educator and yoga teacher. I am also a seasoned science writer and editor who has dedicated my career to helping brilliant thinkers improve the clarity of their writing.
more journaling resources
The Navel Gazette
Get the latest journaling news, events, and suggestions from my Substack, The Navel Gazette.
Top posts:
Join me on this omphaloskeptic journey as we contemplate the wonders within.
Journaling On-Ramp
insight and clarity in 10 Minutes a Day
This 21-day journaling journey guides you to establish a lasting journaling habit one day at a time.
A tried-and-true format that makes it easy to unlock huge shifts in your thinking.