How to bullet journal using the Kaizen method

“Overwhelmed, burned out, fatigued”

“I can’t do it”

“I need a holiday”

This could have been my inner monologue for a couple of weeks in the earlier part of this year. Yet two helpful practices have pulled me back into the running for 2024.

You see, 2023 was a good year for me. A vintage year. It was the year I recognized that I was a flaming rabbit. I also started a complex but rewarding role in my career, became more involved with my local community, and had a significant three-week break from parental duties.

I thought I’d finish strong as well. In late November and into December I was mostly upbeat and energetic. Until I got a very heavy cold (possibly Covid) around the same time my other half broke her tailbone. Thus removing her practical input from the childcare and daily chores. Two weeks into January and I was flagging. Unable to get back on the pace. I needed something.

Fortunately for me, Doctor Robert Maurer turned up in my life. In the third week of Jan I listened to the slightly dated but still excellent book of his. It was then I picked up the practice of journaling again. The reaction between taking up bullet journaling, and adapting ideas from the Kaizen philosophy, has propelled me forward through the thawing winter months.

A deep dive into bullet journaling

Bullet journaling, a method devised by Ryder Carroll, is a system designed to promote mindfulness, productivity, and creativity. At its core, the bullet journal is a customizable organisation system that combines elements of a planner, diary, and to-do list into one streamlined notebook. Now I’m no big fan of to-do lists in general, but stick with me while I explain how this works.

The basic components include the index, future log, monthly log, daily log, and custom collections, which users can adapt to fit their personal and professional needs. This flexibility allows for a highly personalized approach to tracking past achievements, organizing the present, and planning for the future.

The benefits of bullet journaling extend far beyond mere organization. For many (myself included) it is a tool for mental wellness, helping to declutter the mind by transferring thoughts and tasks onto paper. Unbelievably simple. But it works. This tactile process encourages reflection on one’s personal journey, goals, and the daily moments of life that might otherwise go unnoticed.

How is bullet journaling useful?

It is a method that supports the tracking of successes and challenges, allowing a deeper understanding of one’s own habits and tendencies. Furthermore, bullet journaling can spark creativity, offering a blank canvas to explore ideas, drawings, and personal reflections.

For anyone wishing to take up bullet journaling, getting started is simple. Begin with a notebook and a pen. Literally just that. These are your essential tools. The first step is to set up an index page, which will serve as your table of contents. Next, create a future log to overview the coming months, followed by a monthly (or weekly) log for more immediate planning, and then daily logs for day-to-day tasks and notes.

Prominent features are known as custom collections and can include anything from reading lists to fitness trackers, tailored to your personal goals and interests. Remember, the key to bullet journaling is to make it your own. This is not about perfection, but progress and personalization. Experiment with different layouts and trackers until you find what works best for you. Most importantly, enjoy the process of creating a space that reflects your life’s journey.

What is the Kaizen Method?

The Kaizen method originated in post-war Japan. It represents a philosophy that focuses on continuous, incremental improvement. Initially applied in the manufacturing industry to enhance efficiency and quality, its principles have since transcended into various aspects of personal and professional development.

Kaizen, literally meaning “change for better,” encourages individuals to strive for constant improvement in all areas of life, emphasizing that small, consistent changes can lead to significant outcomes. This approach demystifies the process of achieving big goals by breaking them down into manageable, actionable steps.

At the heart of the Kaizen method are five foundational principles: sort, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain. These principles can be applied to personal growth as follows:

• ‘Sort’ through your goals and priorities to identify what truly matters;
• ‘Set in order’ your daily routines and workspace to promote efficiency;
• ‘Shine’ by regularly reviewing and refining your habits;
• ‘Standardize’ successful practices to ensure they become a consistent part of your life;
• and ‘Sustain’ these efforts by continuously looking for ways to improve.

What can Kaizen do for you?

By embracing these principles, one can create a structured yet flexible framework for personal development. Implementing Kaizen in daily life starts with recognizing the value of small, incremental changes. For instance, dedicating just five minutes each morning to meditation or yoga, can significantly enhance mental clarity over time. Similarly, allocating a brief period each day to learn a new skill or language can result in substantial progress.

The key is consistency. By focusing on making minor adjustments regularly, you create a compounding effect that leads to meaningful growth. This method teaches us that progress, no matter how small, is still progress. It is all about embracing the journey of improvement without being overwhelmed by the magnitude of ambitious goals.

The impact of bullet journaling for yours truly

Integrating the Kaizen method with bullet journaling has already transformed my approach to personal and professional development. Here’s how I apply this philosophy in a practical, day-to-day context within my bullet journal:

Weekly Focuses

At the start of each week, I dedicate a page to outline my main focuses. These are areas where I want to see incremental progress, whether it’s related to work, personal skills, health, or relationships. Setting out these focuses helps me maintain a clear direction for the week ahead.

Daily Kaizen Steps

For each day, I track my progress towards the weekly focuses with small, manageable steps. These steps are inspired by the Kaizen principle of making continuous, incremental improvements. It could be as simple as practicing Chinese (I’ll master it one day!) or engaging in breathwork for two minutes.

Gratitude Log

Every day, I make it a point to list at least one or two things I’m grateful for. This practice has been especially grounding, reminding me to appreciate the present and find joy in even the simple things. Whilst striving for improvement, it’s crucial to recognize and cherish the positives that already exist in our lives.

Personal Reflection

At the end of each day, I reserve space in my bullet journal for personal reflection. This is where I capture the essence of my mood, significant events of the day, and any insights I’ve gained. It is a moment of introspection, allowing me to process my experiences and emotions.

So what?

Using the bullet journal in this Kaizen manner has both made my goals more attainable and also enriched my journey towards achieving them. So, here is a method that emphasizes progress and personal growth, encouraging a mindset of continuous improvement that is both sustainable and fulfilling.

In the broader context of global uncertainty and challenges, the practices of bullet journaling and Kaizen offer more than just personal benefits. They provide a framework for mindfulness and gratitude that can have a profound impact on our perspective towards the world around us.

Bullet journals in a world of bullets

Amidst the turbulence of global events, maintaining a sense of gratitude has become increasingly important. The bullet journal serves as a daily reminder of the peace and freedoms I enjoy. Freedoms which are not afforded to everyone around the world. By dedicating space in my journal to reflect on what I am grateful for, I am cultivating a habit of appreciating many diverse aspects of my life.

Beyond personal reflection, my bullet journaling practice encourages actionable steps towards making a positive impact. It starts with identifying small, tangible actions that contribute to larger causes. Whether it’s complimenting others, fostering compassion, or advocating for social justice. Tracking these actions in my journal not only holds me accountable, but also illustrates the power of collective, incremental efforts in driving meaningful change.

Final thought

Combining bullet journaling with the Kaizen method has enhanced my sense of connection to the world around me. By embarking on this, I have underscored the importance of continuous improvement, mindfulness, and gratitude. It is early days perhaps, but I am inspired, I am motivated, and I can recommend the process.

I would encourage everyone to start small. To identify one small change you can make today. It doesn’t have to be a massive act or significant undertaking. But get a notebook, make it a journal, and start tracking your steps towards a better you. Thank me later.

How to start a bullet journal for beginners