When it comes time to buy a new journal, you don’t want to rush the process. You might be using it for months before getting another one, so it should be something that checks off all the boxes, from the size to how it looks. Here are some things to consider when looking for a new journal.
The Size and Weight
Consider the size and weight of the journal. The size may determine how long your pages will be or how thick the journal will be. The weight of a journal may determine how or if you will carry it around. Are you going to carry your journal in a purse or briefcase? Are you going to take the journal on trips? The size and weight will likely be very important. If you tend to take the journal with you or write while holding it on a couch or chair, you don’t want it to be big and heavy.
If you journal at home and always have the journal sitting on your desk, then a larger journal might be good for you. With a larger journal, you do not have to worry about carrying it around and this gives you more space to write.
The Binding
Some people like the hardcover binding because it looks more like a book, but others prefer soft binding or a spiral journal since the pages are easier to open and write in. The hardcover journals are beautiful and wonderful to have, but they aren’t as easy to write in because the pages don’t always open flat on a desk or table. If you are the type of person that likes a book or journal to open and lie flat you may want to consider either a spiral journal or a soft binding that allows you to open it and lay it flat on the surface.
The Pages
Another thing to consider is the pages themselves – do you want lines or blank pages? If you are only writing in your journal, lined pages are the way to go. It keeps everything in one place, and you can write neatly in a straight line without frustration. However, if you like to make lists and jot down notes, along with pictures and doodles, the blank pages might work better for you.
If you take the time to look you may find a journal that has a combination of spaces. There are planners that give you spaces to doodle, jot down your calendared events, and gives you space to journal, although they may not be very big spaces. It may take more time to find one with a combination of spaces, but they are out there.
The Color and Design
Remember that the journal you choose should be something you love. This includes a cover that really appeals to you. This might seem trivial, but it does matter. If you have a journal that is not really appealing on the outside or a color you don’t care for, it isn’t going to be exciting to open it every day.
You want something that catches your eye with your favorite colors or a fun design. Find one you just have to have, because you are much more likely to use it on a regular basis if you do so.
When looking for a new journal, take the time to think about all the features you would like to have and what type of journaling you will be doing. Taking the time to make a decision on those few things will help when it comes time to choose.
Happy Journaling!
Pamela
