What are /r/Journaling's favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

Thank you! I bought a monthly calendar notebook, like this one: So I didn't have to draw lines or anything.

Each day (actually the next morning) I doodled in whatever struck me as the main event for that day.

If I was feeling lazy or uninspired, it was sometimes just 'comic-book style' text, or a generic doodle, and the overall effect has been a sort of comic journal that's personal to me.

I didn't put pressure on myself to draw anything too 'artistic', just little doodles or text of my day. Definitely try it- I found it fun!

Really, to get started with journaling at a very base level, not much is needed. The way I started was very simple.

• College-ruled composition notebook

• A decent pen.

However, I understand a comp. notebook isn't best tool to use, so instead you could buy these run-of-the-mill-but-better-quality notebooks I got recently off Amazon. Much, much better than 50 cent Staples notebooks. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076DBQDMT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_PPYNBbGCSA9QQ

I've never been one to decorate so my notebook only has a name on it. But, I figure a pack of markers, some stickers, and some creativity can go a long way. There isnt really a product (that I can think of, at least) that really promotes journaling aside from personal drive and motivation. As far as making handwriting pleasurable, the knack for writing will come naturally as you write more often. I used to hate it in grade school, but through the end of high school and college as I began to write more entries, writing just began to feel good. I don't know why; I just got used to it.

You just need the desire to write and to express yourself on the page. There's no miracle method which will force you to write. That has to come from you.

I got it on Amazon- it's the LTC Nimbleback but I did do some modifications- the skirt is removable so I spray painted it light purple and I got a cheap(er) key cap set, also on Amazon and swapped out the keycaps for these colored ones! :)

Clear page protectors in a binder? The kind to store trading cards might be a good size, or the kind to store postcards.

Bookbinding Tape, White Cloth Book Repair Tape for Bookbinders, Semi-Transparent Hinging Tape, Craft Tape, 2 Inches by 45 Feet https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07D96LG78/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Jx-zFb1YETYA5

I’ve used this tape to repair the spine on one of my journals, and it worked really well.

hello! <3

the prompt list is from pinterest or google. i'll link my notion page that i use to keep track of all prompt lists that i'm currently working on. Journaling Prompts thank you for the compliments !! it means alot especially since i'm left handed o_o and so it's very nice to see that :] i tried to keep the pages simple yet elegant and hopefully i can maintain the same style consistent throughout !!

have a wonderful day :D

You could make the front of the journal your positive/ normal stuff, then at the back of the journal start with the opposite/negative stuff. and just keep going until they clash in the middle. Just an idea.

its hard to explain but a good comparison is a book called good faeries bad faeries by Brian Froud. when you flip the book upsidedown, it goes from good, to bad.

https://www.amazon.com/Good-Faeries-Bad-Brian-Froud/dp/0684847817

I keep a journal on my phone (with this app, which I recommend), and basically I just write everything that goes through my mind, what's happening to me, observation about people and places...everything, the only thing I don't write about is university and work, I use my journal to escape the stress and these topics are banned from it

https://www.amazon.com/Organizers-Stationery-Storage-Container-Organizer/dp/B07SC189HK/ref=asc_df_B07SC189HK/?tag=hyprod-20&amp;linkCode=df0&amp;hvadid=343227714843&amp;hvpos=&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvrand=14048025998040698729&amp;hvpone=&amp;hvptwo=&am...

I think I found it!

You're right, that's my bad. I had to look at my journal to find the brand. Here's the link to the journal.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B8I4ISM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_u3tZFb1M6M776?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

Look into getting a locking cash box or bag, like this or like this. The bag would be easier to hide, you can put it behind other things on a bookshelf or under the mattress.

Oh sure!! It's a Stalogy 365 Day notebook! Here's the link to the amazon page

I really like it! It has a bit of ghosting but that doesn't bother me and there's no bleed from any of the pens that i've been using, though I usually only use one pen in it (Micron 01). :D

And thank you!! /o\ I can't wait to see how thick it is when i'm done!

Here is a sample of a Shakespeare theme! Just search "novel journals" on Amazon and you'll see a lot of them! I have this Wizard of Oz themed one, but I honestly can't bring myself to write in it cause it's so pretty!

Someone talked about them below, but the one I specifically use is the Canon Ivy! https://www.amazon.com/Canon-Mobile-Printer-through-Bluetooth/dp/B07C66CKQ9

It connects to your phone via bluetooth and has its own special app where you can print and edit from! It's usually about $10 for 20 sheets, but I wait for them to go on sale on Amazon, they'll go down to half price every once and a while and I'll stock up.

Nope, I write everything on my phone, am using Daygram.

The issue is that now that I've reached 100k words I can't export a .txt file or send it as an email. I wrote the devs, but they haven't responded. Last time it worked was at around 95k words, that was around 2 weeks ago, so I just copy pasted the remaining 2 weeks into Google Keep and then put everything into wordcounter.net. Word works fine too.

This is what I use: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B074K33MY3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

I use this hack aka marking the edge of the pages to narrow down what I want to find again. Otherwise an index on a journal with page numbers may work.

Personally for me;

• Recipes I have ACTUALLY USED are in a notebook in kitchen. Borrowed are emailed to me, in Google Keep or printed off Internet and in back of planner.
• Thoughts are in a journal in my nightstand with a nice pen. This is also where quotes go in, cool poems, pretty pictures... A list of teas I was trying was also in back pages of that journal. Tbh anything random tends to be at the end.
• Planning out tends to be either scrap paper and moved to online docs (long term ie degree planning) or put into planner. My planning out is utter messy chaos so...
• Lists. I have spiral bound notebooks by laptop or at work to scribble down things. I rip out pages when done.
• Only long term list I have is taped in page for gift ideas in planner for family.

Personally even though the Bullet Journal-esque idea of have EVERYTHING in one place is popular I don't find everything useful in one place. It's messy and chaos. What I find I need is a place to collect things and moving them semi-regularly, aka scrap paper style cheapest notebooks. Having the stuff where I'd use it - the kitchen, or near my bed, or in my bag or on my desk is what does well for me.

PS get those stick on pen holders. Pen at planner helps SO MUCH.

Their website isn't loading for wilsonjones.com but they are an ACCO brand. That Standard Diary division is pretty much At-a-Glance today. https://www.amazon.com/AT-GLANCE-Standard-Reminder-SDU389-03/dp/B000V8XGW0

I use fountain pens, so that impacts my choices, but... I like Rhodiarama (basically a Rhodia Webnotebook but with color), also Endless Recorder and Paperblanks (which have gorgeous covers, if you're looking for something with more personality than a solid color). I recently ordered the following, but haven't had a chance to use them yet, so I can't vouch for how good the paper is, but on examination, it looks and feels good, so I'm hopeful:

Minimalism Art

Lemome Thick Classic Notebook (I like the pen-loop on the spine)

Was it this??? https://www.amazon.com/Make-Stick-Notebook-Stickers-Customizable/dp/0804190151?ref_=d6k_applink_bb_marketplace

For reference, I searched: "notebook with stickers and chipboard cover" and this came up in the images. Other search terms: "sticker dot grid notebook" "spiral cardboard/chipboard notebook with sticker pages" etc

A not-cheap hardcover option is the "AT-A-GLANCE Standard Diary Undated Daily Reminder, 6 x 8.75 x 1-Inches"

https://www.amazon.com/AT-GLANCE-Standard-Reminder-SDU389-03/dp/B000V8XGW0

These are sturdy. I have owned a few of the dated (customized for each year) version.

The biggest downfall to pencil is it's not permanent, it can so easily be smudged or potentially worn down and you won't be able to read it anymore. However, you could use something like Krylon Spray Fixatif to help preserve it. I mean, there are notebooks and files from decades ago that'd been written in pencil and they're still legible, so if you take care of it, it should be fine.

Don't wait for a particular day or time, start right now!

As for privacy, I'm gonna repeat the advice I gave to someone else. I don't know how old you are, but if you're old enough to make purchases on your own, the company Vaultz makes locking boxes in a bunch of different sizes and they're pretty affordable. You can search on Amazon for "Vaultz lock box." Depending on how many journals you have and the dimensions of the book(s), another option would be a locking bag, the kind companies use for night deposits. Also something you can find on Amazon, I think "locking money bag" should bring up different options. The bag would be easier to hide, you can put it inside your pillow or under your mattress.

That's a great idea!

If I struggle, I usually turn to a book I found a few weeks ago. It's The Daily Stoic and gives a little citation of an ancient Stoic thinker and some modern reflection on it. It may sound boring but I find it incredibly insightful and it always triggers a thought in me to journal about.

that's lovely, I find talking to myself to be a very healthy thing to do and I certainly wish that I do it more often!

an app I came across is otter.ai, it transcribes your voice notes into text so you can search it, maybe you'd be interested in it?

Mine's thick as hell like that too and the band hasn't broken yet... knock on wood. I've been using these in this collection: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07CJGPCNT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_3QNSNSYKHN9PF9EBAK11?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

thank you :D don't worry at all about asking for product links, i am more than happy to provide ! the paper is actually origami paper and i have this booklet. Origami Paper Booklet

i just pick out a sheet of paper and then cut it into four even squares and i use two for the quotes, and the other two for the other decoration(s) located on the page. i also do my best to alternate the patterns as best as i can. have a great day !

This is just me, but I’m particularly a big fan of the Pentel Energel pens - they’re easy to find in stores. Do you like ballpoint, gel, liquid…? It all makes a difference in pen recommendations. The Energel pens are gel and come in the standard colors along with all sorts of fun colors. I bought this 20 pack off Amazon a while ago - you can’t find a pack this large in stores. I’ve also always loved the Uniball Vision rollerballs liquid pens - they write pretty nicely also and come in standard/fun colors as well. Pilot Vball pens are another good rollerball type. The aforementioned Uniball and Pilot pens were my writing instruments of choice for school and journaling when I was in high school over 20 years ago.

As for fun pens… I was and am a big fan of Sakura Gelly Roll pens… they’re a little harder to find in store these days compared to my HS days but they can still be found out. :) I get the impression you’re roughly high school age… is my assumption correct? Really, it all comes down to the ink type you prefer most. Good luck. A nice pen really makes the difference in journaling habits!

Wow, thanks for the great comment! I appreciate the detail! I don't think I could be so organized! 🤣

>an electronic app for mood/health tracking

Which one do you use? I've been using Daylio since 2018 and highly recommend it!

>Unrelated, but can I just comment on how adorable your fluffy pants are. :D Were they a local purchase, homemade, or could I find some online?

It was a couple years ago so I had to do some digging but I found them on Amazon!

It’s this: https://www.amazon.com/Handmade-Leather-Lined-Journal-Notebook/dp/B06XHH2Z2R/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3G41SONAFVAUL&amp;dchild=1&amp;keywords=thoughtspace+journals&amp;qid=1620438093&amp;sprefix=Thoughtspa%2Caps%2C480&amp;sr=8-3 Normally I’d try to get handmade leather bound journals in this style for other things from time period or maybe renaissance festivals. I like the aesthetic.

If you're using a bound journal, alternate where on the page you add the photo prints. That will help with the bulk. Moleskine is very thin. Consider something with 140gsm or more. I'm currently using this one myself - New Bullet Dotted Journal - a5 Dotted Notebook with 140gsm Ghost Free and bleedproof Paper with Inner Pocket, 3 Bookmarks and Gift Box (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WC5SJC7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_YIIaGb4F9XTA2?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

A bound sketchbook wouldbalso work well.

Besides here cross post in r/handwriting and r/penmanship !

I have bad handwriting. People can read it, usually. It's uneven and just yuck. I have tried all sorts of pens. The pens that work best for me are:

PILOT Dr. Grip Center of Gravity Ballpoint

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006SW9EG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

Schneider Slider Memo XB Ballpoint Pen

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JQ7SMGM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

Your mileage may vary, of course.

the second one is from the brand eccolo! they are usually $5 from tj maxx or homegoods. and i also saw this one while looking for a pen holder, it’s by the same brand as the one I have so I would assume it’s similar :)

i had the same exact problem so I found this one from amazon! it comes with three straps that are adjustable to fit different size journals/notebooks so you can reuse it even if you chose to change your journal/notebook size. and it’s only $10 :)

I think u/lizzunic is referring to the Midori's Traveler's Notebook (https://www.amazon.com/Midori-Travelers-Notebook-Black-Leather/dp/B000ZYJ96W) although there are a lot of similar and more affordable ones available (often called "Fauxdoris") on Amazon, Etsy, etc.

It's a Leuchtterm1917 A5 notebook!

Here's an Amazon link

Been really liking Lemome's hardcover A5 dot journal ( https://www.amazon.com/Thick-Classic-Notebook-Pen-Loop/dp/B07168XGHT?th=1&amp;psc=1 ) Great price and looks/feels wonderful too. Just randomly tried it off of Amazon one day and was pleasantly surprised when it arrived. Although I do enjoy my TWSBI Eco fountain pen, been using a Pilot v5 rt and a precise mainly. As a lefthander it feels good to have a pen that lays down bold ink but doesn't smear immediately.

I have this cute one saved in my Amazon cart!

Amazon!! :D

It's fantastic. But the pages are fairly thin so you def want to have a pen test page at the back. It's less bleeding and more ghosting through the other side. So if that bothers you, I'd steer clear.

I found it on amazon. While the size can be kind of inconvenient when I don't have a lot of room to spread it out on, I do love having the extra space, and the paper quality. It is wider ruled than the smaller ones although I don't think it is quite wide ruled by standard notebook measurements. Maybe somewhere between college and wide when comparing to common notebooks. I keep a smaller Leuchtturm1917 with me when I go somewhere and just want something to write random stuff in. I am a bit of a notebook nerd but I plan to stick with the master classic when it comes to my everyday journalling at home.

Here is a link to the one I purchased.

Here is where I bought it from. I just write in my journals. It's my first time with an unlined one so hopefully it goes well.

Tekukor also has 160 gsm notebooks

Tekukor A5 160gsm 192pgs Dot Journal Hardcover Dotted Notebook Grid Pages Bullet Sketchbook - Burgundy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PH3R2W3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ax3eFbDXS2XMC

I use these pens. A set might be a good choice. You can see what width you like and there’s also a brush pen for lettering

Sakura Pigma 10 Fineliner Pens Black Archival Ink Artist Drawing Sketch Pens (003, 005, 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 08), Graphic 1 ,Brush Pen Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076KP5GVG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iy3eFb11F58Q3

I got them from amazon! Both by Peter Pauper Press

Autumn Moon Journal

Celestial Journal

If it's an A5 size, I use one of these at times:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0046O0PEC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

Has a sleeve that holds an A5 journal, elastic loops to hold pens/pencils and a zippered pocket.

IMO a traveler's notebook cover is on par with "actual notebooks are out of the question" since it's a pretty hefty personal investment. If the giftees already bought their notebooks for the new year, then imposing a completely new notebook system on them could go to waste.

As a huge collage/ephemera journaler, I second the photo printer and mini envelope suggestions. I would also recommend stickers, which come in a wide variety from Lisa Frank twee to tastefully retro. Depending on what your recipients' interests are, you could find stickers themed around a surprising number of niche hobbies and fandoms.

Have a public journal on paper and a private journal that's ENCRYPTED on your computer. Assume that your public journal will be read at some point. Don't even tell anyone about the private journal. VeraCrypt is your friend.

EDIT 1: You could also lock your journal in a portable safe and carry the key with you 24/7. The only problem is that you'll run out of space, so you'll have to burn the journals when you're done with them.

I've actually looked into things like journaling for mental health, looking at youtube, reading articles, etc. I write down what I like. I also like to write down my thoughts about what I'm reading. I'm not sure if you'll be able to see this or not, but this is a collection of articles I've tagged on Pocket.

I journaled with paper/leather-bound journals for about a decade. I've lost track of a few journals (parents' attic? fingers crossed), and I shudder to think where they've ended up.

About five years ago, I moved to writing entries online. At first, Google Documents, then Svbtle (which is actually a blogging platform, but I used it privately). For the last four years, I've been developing my own online journal since I couldn't find anything else I truly loved: www.kindmind.com.

Feedback welcome and appreciated if you feel like giving it a spin. Happy journaling!

I write a journal entry every morning in my Hotmail account and email it to idonethis.com. At the end of the year I download the year and spend an hour or two formatting it in Excel and Word. One of my favorite things about this is they email me an old entry from a month, week, or year ago. I love reading what I did one those days. It's like I get to relive the day.

I currently use Day One App and Capture365. But the last update for Day One removed the ability to use Dropbox. Why do I use two? It's complicated and started using them both before they allowed multiple journals in either one.

Sometimes writing those things and getting those things off your chest is what is best for you. I personally use an online organization app called taskade to journal because I like it all organized and I jump around a lot when I journal. But when I write/type about things that are sad or make me mad it makes me so relieved after I get it off my chest.

Of course! I got mine from Amazon. So far I like it xxx Bullet Notebook B5. Large Dotted Journal. 180gsm Dot Paper Sketch Pad. Premium Art Notebook Incl. Scribble Test Page, Elastic Enclosure, Pen Holder, B https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08R94G97Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_IiL6EnImoEx9G

Yes! you can without problem, for example I use this app on my phone, is perfect for my needs simple but effective.

But you can use what you want, your journal, your rules

I have one similar to this. Amazon “lap desk” -this one is about $24.lap desk on Amazon

Thank you thank you! Yes

Here it is

Moleskine Limited Edition Dragon Ball Z Notebook, Hard Cover, Large (5" x 8.25") Ruled/Lined, Goku, 240 Pages (8053853603760) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q6HPG93/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2V11PMNQQETY2VSWRACG?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

I recently switched to this new app, and man I recommend it! simple, works offline, minimal but nice to look at, and voice note can be so useful.

I started to do it digitally a while a go because an accident I can't use my right hand for a while so I downloaded this app to use in the meantime, but then I noticed how much more handy is journaling on digital and I never come back to paper

Preppy fountain pens! Cartridge refill/ replacements so no mess with ink bottles. I am too scattered to do ink bottles lol. I love these because there’s all these different colors and they’re so easy.

https://www.amazon.com/Platinum-Fountain-Preppy-PSQ-300-Point/dp/B07JDZ5J46/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=platinum+fountain+pen+preppy&amp;qid=1626351041&amp;sprefix=platinum+fountain+pen+pre&amp;sr=8-4

This book came in the mail yesterday and I read a good chunk of it. It has lots of ideas, although I am not sure if the art stuff is what you had in mind. There are some ideas I would like to use, such as assigning certain topics to a die and roll it for a theme-of-the-day.

I found this on amazon but I'll look for other option.

If you're asking where you can find more, these are called record books! I searched "numbered record book" on Amazon and there's a bunch of options, unfortunately some are pretty expensive (unless you're willing to spend $40+ on one) but for example there's this one which I might have to get for myself now lol

Sure thing! It is a sticker, a washi sticker. I got it on Amazon, here’s a link to it. I have been a little obsessed with stickers of women lately, lol. This one was one of my favs in the pack, so I was excited to use it! :)

I also hate the wide ruled journals that seem to be everywhere.

My fav journals got discontinued so I tried out the Huhuhero journal from Amazon and I love it! It’s $8.99, doesn’t bleed, and I would consider it college/narrow ruled at 6 mm wide.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DCSJ35B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_P73APP0CCBYJA9KQYE8Y?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

Gonna make a really nerdy suggestion. A multipen that you can actually buy replacement ink for: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OCDNB34/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_C6GFARRJAK9RW4T5EFDN

I love this thing, have bought multiples because I keep giving them to people. They are great pens, and the gel ink is fantastic, the ink comes in multiple colors and widths, and there's even a mechanical pencil insert.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0797P84CZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_J5WBKGW5JTHRSK2YXVH4?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

This is the notebook I used to size it. I tried to pick something that would fit a lot of notebooks.

I just bought this cool sketchbook https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B095MMSHBH?ref\_=pe\_3052080\_397514860 that has separate pages for storing train tickets, bus tickets and I am in love with it!! It even has a category for "random stuff I kept just because" lol. Thought I might share this as I ve never seen something similar before.So if you re also into collecting memories, check it out!

That looks great!! I just bought this cool sketchbook https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B095MMSHBH?ref\_=pe\_3052080\_397514860 that has separate pages for storing train tickets, bus tickets and I am in love with it!! It even has a category for "random stuff I kept just because" lol. Thought I might share this as I ve never seen something similar before.So if you re also into collecting memories, check it out!

That looks great!! I just bought this cool sketchbook https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B095MMSHBH?ref\_=pe\_3052080\_397514860 that has separate pages for storing train tickets, bus tickets and I am in love with it!! It even has a category for "random stuff I kept just because" lol. Thought I might share this as I ve never seen something similar before.So if you re also into collecting memories, check it out!

That looks great!! I just bought this cool sketchbook https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B095MMSHBH?ref\_=pe\_3052080\_397514860 that has separate pages for storing train tickets, bus tickets and I am in love with it!! It even has a category for "random stuff I kept just because" lol. Thought I might share this as I ve never seen something similar before.So if you re also into collecting memories, check it out!

I just bought this cool sketchbook https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B095MMSHBH?ref\_=pe\_3052080\_397514860 that has separate pages for storing train tickets, bus tickets and I am in love with it!! Thought I might share this as I ve never seen something similar before. So if you re also into collecting memories, check it out! It even has a category for "random stuff I kept just because" lol

I thought so too! Haha. And sure thing! Here’s a link! Idk if they have the purple set still (that’s what these are from), but there were a few different sets. :)

120 Pcs Scrapbook Stickers Paper Sticker Set Self-Adhesive Label Decoration with 2 Different Themes Assorted for DIY Art Craft Decorative Scrapbooking Journal Diary Book https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B091F5HVDF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_T7ZCDM3PQTQZ6SPTMHDZ?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1 :)

One of these (I got mine from Joanns but I'm pretty sure that's the right size) and I DIY'd a few of this one and tbh a lot are just in a couple of grocery bags lol

For sure. I would love to own a facsimile but they are expensive.

Check out Dan Eldon's journals if you haven't already. Very similar. Guillermo del Toro's journals are pretty great too. He has a book about his.

The marbled paper is from a collection available on Amazon for craft purposes. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Marbled-Paper-Collection-bookbinding-crafting/dp/1713247313/ref=asc_df_1713247313

(It's printed marbled paper designs rather than genuine hand marbling.)

Bullet journal ≠ dot grid notebook. You'll get more results by searching sites for a dot grid notebook. I dig the Peter Pauper Essentials a6

This is the best fine liner I've ever used. It's the only thing I use for my journals rn and I use it for drawing a lot cause it doesn't skip. I've noticed sometimes the line will be a little heavier for the first paragraph of the day, but I think that inconsistency is just from bouncing around in a backpack all day

Lechtturm1917 notebooks also include an index in the front of their notebooks, and the pages come pre-numbered.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002TSIMW4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_6z--FbH2GSDHS?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

They come in other colours besides black as well.

Amazon, here's a link to one similar :) https://www.amazon.com/JunShop-Creative-Password-Notebook-Combination/dp/B07D9RY6FF/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=butterfly+combination+lock+journal&amp;qid=1608347568&amp;sr=8-4

For me, the “what is the point” of keeping a journal is that it’s a place where I have an ongoing conversation with myself to process my thoughts. And how this turns out is whatever I need the journal to be on any given day. I might write multiple times a day, or I might go two months without writing. If I don’t feel like writing, I might paste in random pictures, sketches, and ephemera just because. And sometimes I just write FUCK THIS with a big red marker in gigantic scrawl across the page and call it a day because #2020.

You mentioned you wrote a lot as a kid and then “life happened, things happened”, and since that point you’ve been trying to get back into the habit with mixed success. Perhaps this is what you could explore in your journal as you approach 40: what compelled you to write as a kid before “life happened”? What happened in your life that the journal has fallen silent about? Or for something less heavy, go deep into nostalgia and write about good memories, or think of the future and what you hope your 40s will be like. To echo others in the thread: it’s okay to acknowledge that journal habits will change over time. We evolve over time; isn’t it fair to say that something so personal as a journal would also mirror that evolution?

For some inspiration, I highly recommend “The New Diary” if you’re able to access it online or borrow it, or buy it: https://www.amazon.com/New-Diary-Self-Guidance-Expanded-Creativity/dp/0874771501. It’s a great resource explaining the different ways to approach and utilize a journal, and does so without getting saccharine. The book was published in 1978 and has remained in print since then. I first read it in the late 90s and keep a copy of it on my shelf to this day.

For 365 pages, plus those extra pages at the front and back, that’s maybe 390 pages. I don’t know of many A5 notebooks with that many pages.

I think this one has too many pages: Littfun A5 Notebook Black PU Leather Vintage Diary for Travel Home Office and School 720 Pages (Horizontal line) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZZL51CP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_OteUFbZE0GDNQ

This one has 400 pages but is 70 gsm: Moleskine Classic Expanded Notebook, Soft Cover, Large (5" x 8.25") Ruled/Lined, Black, 400 Pages https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J3B7DBX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_UueUFb6FWMTTG?psc=1

Otherwise take a look at agendio .com and see if there are any formats that may work for you.

tab punch would have been the better choice of words! It's just a punch in the shape of tabs. It's great for choosing your own designs!

I love Josephine Wall! I have a couple of her journals. Peter Pauper Press feature a few of her designs, too. This one is a personal favourite.

You might like this small series of editions of influential books. They have prompts every section or so and lined space to write responses directly in the books. It helps you process things and form your own ideas about some difficult stuff.

I linked to Amazon, but in a Barnes and Noble they're like $13.

I have apps for some of those things, but I do think you can't beat a notebook for things you devote a lot of time to. It's more customization. Props to you for having a journal for your finances. I'd be lost without Mint, and even then I hardly know what's going on lol.

Totally! I just got these in the mail today (have been borrowing my housemate's identical set) and they are INCREDIBLE. here they are one Amazon. they're actually alcohol based, but GOD DAMN YES they bleed through paper like nobody's business. Almost as much of a mark on the back of the page as the front, and that's on my Strathmore drawing paper. I never use them in my journal, and whenever I use they in my sketchbook or drawing pad I put a piece of cardboard/cardstock underneath the sheet to prevent bleeding to the next sheet.

They're a joy to use. Absolutely worth the price. Bleeding is annoying but personally I find it workable. (also I have a set of these same markers in primaries coming this week heheeeehe)

I LOVE IT. I got it off of Wish, but later found out it was on Amazon, but the one on amazon is twice as much and isn't gilded around the edges. :D (though it will ship like 5x as fast. xD)

Wait, I found the same one on Amazon

I don't know where they got theirs, but it's on Amazon, there are actually several cool looking ones on there and pretty affordable.

https://www.amazon.com/Universe-Journal-Diary-Notebook/dp/1441315284

This book is about drawings not photographs, but the idea is about documenting your life via imagery

https://www.amazon.com/Illustrated-Journey-Inspiration-Traveling-Illustrators/dp/144032025X

(I read the book on Libby, a free library app) There’s loads of inspiration and pictures and picking out what types of things to share in your sketchbook/journal. I’ve been a sketchbook keeper for years but never really documented my life in that way, I always just did handwritten journals. This book totally helped me combine the two!

I also really like @adventuredenali on youtube/instagram, she has some good journaling videos and photos showing how she incorporates photographs inside her journal.

Medium. I use a 12-Month Moleskine Daily Planner, each day of the year has its own page. It's perfect for me because I want to journal every day, but I never goes beyond a page of writing (however, being OCD, I'm filling up the page completely, sometime I add either a picture or a drawing!)

Just head to a fabric store (or the craft section of Walmart) and buy some elastic! If you want something decorative, there's options like this (which they also sell a small supply of at Walmart)

Pre-COVID I used to do all of my journaling/writing at a Tim Hortons (Canadian coffee chain) near me. It was the only place I could go to get away from the distractions at home and focus.

Ever since COVID, I've struggled to find a place to journal. My desk is small and just fits my computer, the keyboard (on a keyboard tray) and mouse. The keyboard tray is too low for me to lean down and write on, and there isn't anywhere else in my apartment I can write. No where I can really fit another desk either. I was looking to get a TV tray or something to use but so far, no dice (or they're the cost of a new tiny desk).

Did try writing in bed but again, nothing to write on. The lap desk I have, I'm still leaning down and straining my back. It's a bit frustrating. I'm hoping to find something like a laptop stand (something like this) that I can get in Canada, and then just use it for journaling. My really odd looking setup atm is the lap desk I have, with a cutting board I bought at the dollar store and it's all held together by bungee cords XD I put that on top of a pillow in my lap and it's somewhat of a solid surface without having to lean forward so much.

As dorky as it might sound, I've really loved this one: https://www.amazon.com/Leather-Combination-Password-Journal-Multicolor/dp/B073T1GXKH

Peter Pauper Press has some 5x7 notebooks which are a teeeeeny bit bigger, like by 0.1”, than B6. They’re hardcover and lined but I believe it’s wide ruled.

This is the one I’m in now

They're all pre-dated, yes! They rarely have ones that are undated. Here is the undated one. It does not have a weekly, but monthly!

Though I think they may be releasing 2021 in August/September? This is my first one, so I'm not too familiar with it as much yet!

I like to use this type of dry tape roller. Any glue with moisture will wrinkle paper.

Scotch Adhesive Dot Roller Value Pack .31 Inches x 49 Feet, 4-Pack (6055BNS) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007VBXC38/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_UMBhFb2PHXZ65

Sorry! Also from amazing haha I was looking for a cheaper alternative to Kikki-k journals here’s the link: A5 Refills Dotted,VASCHY 135... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078MBM567?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

It's a Redragon Kumara 10 Keyless with outemu blue switches and o rings. The keycaps are YMDK Carbon from Amazon. The keycaps take a while to ship and make it overseas, but they are pretty nice! The board is definitely still loud with the blues, but there's a kumara variant with hotswappable switches.

I've just switched to stitching my own journals but before that I usually bought this Amazon Basics journal. Good quality, has a back pocket, good paper, sturdy and ink doesn't bleed through pages.
I was also gifted this set of 3 notebooks. They're smaller and cuter but the paper quality and durability is veryyy good too.

here it is on amazon! This is the a5. It's a bit pricey so I had to use my gift card for it 😅. There is a smaller version which is a6, but it doesn't have a weekly.

I thought it was perfect for me during this quarantine, but lately I decided to just journal past the dates instead of updating it one a day 😂. I still want to have a monthly and weekly with me even if I have no plans going on, you know? And they also have a day-free version but in a6 size.

I got mine on Amazon! Here's the link if you're interested :)

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1441316698/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i10

The Antiquarian Sticker Book: An Illustrated Compendium of Adhesive Ephemera https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250208149/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_o5HJEbBG5FKAB

Here’s an Amazon link to it, you can see some of the pages in the reviews!

Check out Amazon and Target, they have a lot of journals with prompts. Amazon especially has a lot of specialized prompts. If you're having problems filling pages maybe go for one line a day type journals. Here's a great one that tracks your answers over five years.