We share the benefits of each type of journal and provide suggestions on making the most of each one. Journals are such a personal thing and this can help you create the best one for you and your customers or yourself. The great news is, we have lots of easy-to-edit PLR journal templates if you want to create and customize any of these journals for yourself.
#1: Gratitude Journal
A gratitude journal is a personal diary in which individuals regularly record things they are thankful for, whether big or small.
Some writing prompts for a gratitude journal might include:
- Reflect on three things you're thankful for today.
- Highlight a small joy from today's experiences.
- Express gratitude for a supportive person.
- Consider what made you smile today.
- Acknowledge a positive surprise in your day.
Gratitude journals are proven to cultivate a positive mindset, enhance their overall well-being, and acknowledge the good aspects of their lives.
If you'd like to create a gratitude journal for yourself or your customers, we have a gratitude journal template here.
#2: Idea Journal
An idea journal is a notebook where individuals record and expand upon their creative thoughts, concepts, and inspirations across various areas of life.
Some writing prompts for an idea journal might include:
- What's the big idea you want to explore right now?
- What competing ideas do you have and how will you decide which are a priority?
- What are the pros and cons of your idea?
And idea journal lets people to nurture their creativity, organize their innovative ideas, and have a handy resource for future reference, helping them pursue new projects, solve problems, or simply engage in creative expression.
If you'd like to create an ideas journal for yourself or your customers, we have a idea journal template here.
You can also read or watch our How to Make an Idea Journal tutorial.
#3: Project Journal
A project journal can work as a documentation tool to record key information, progress updates, and reflections related to a specific project or task.
It can be used for the brainstorming, planning, execution and evaluation stage of a project. Such journals can help people keep organized, track project development, and learn from their experiences, enabling better decision-making and the successful completion of their endeavors.
A project journal could also include pages to manage the various stages of a project, include a goal setting sheet and more.
If you'd like to create a project journal for yourself or your customers, we have a project journal template here.
You can also read or watch Make a Project Journal Tutorial.
#4: Dream Journal
A dream journal is a personal diary to records dreams, including details, emotions, and taking note of recurring themes.
Dream journals can help people understand their subconscious, analyze patterns in their dreams, and gain insights into their inner thoughts and emotions, ultimately fostering self-awareness and psychological exploration.
Some prompts that might be included in a dream journal include:
- Describe a vivid dream from last night.
- Explore recurring themes or symbols.
- How did your dreams make you feel?
- Any connections to real-life events?
- Imagine a positive dream scenario tonight.
If you'd like to create a dream journal for yourself or your customers, we have a dream journal template here.
#5: Food Journal
A food journal is usually a record of daily dietary intake, including what they eat and drink, portion sizes, and nutritional details. People do this to monitor their eating habits, track their nutritional choices, and achieve various health and wellness goals, such as weight management, improved nutrition, or identifying food sensitivities.
Some pages that might be included in a food journal:
- Daily Food Intake Log
- Nutritional Analysis Page
- Weekly Meal Planning
- Water Consumption Tracker
- Special Occasion Indulgence Log
If you'd like to create a food journal for yourself or your customers, we have a food journal template here.
#6: Reading Journal
A reading journal is a personal notebook where avid readers can record their thoughts, reflections, and reviews of books they've read.
People like to keep reading journals to deepen their understanding of literature, share their insights with others, and preserve a record of their reading journey, enhancing their overall enjoyment of books.
Some writing prompts that might be in a reading journal include:
- What is the main plot of the book?
- Discuss a character's development in the story.
- Share a memorable quote or passage.
- Explore the book's themes and messages.
- Compare the book to your expectations.
If you'd like to create a reading journal for yourself or your customers, we have a reading journal template here.
You can also read or watch our Make a Reading Journal Tutorial.
#7: Travel Journal
A travel journal is a written record of a person's experiences, observations, and memories while exploring new places.
People keep travel journals to capture the essence of their journeys, document their adventures, and create a personal keepsake that allows them to relive their travels and share their stories with others.
Some prompts that might be in a travel journal:
- Describe the most memorable moment today.
- Capture the local flavors you experienced.
- Reflect on a cultural difference you observed.
- Share an unexpected discovery on your journey.
- Document your feelings at a significant landmark.
If you'd like to create a travel journal for yourself or your customers, we have a travel journal template here.
You can also read or watch our Make a Travel Journal Tutorial.
#8: Fitness Journal
A fitness journal is a record where individuals track their physical activities, workouts, dietary choices, and progress towards their fitness and health goals.
They help people stay motivated, maintain accountability, and achieve better results by monitoring their exercise routines and nutritional habits.
A fitness journal might include:
- Daily exercise log
- Measurement trackers
- Goal setting pages
- Reflection pages
If you'd like to create a fitness journal for yourself or your customers, we have a fitness journal template here.
You can also read or watch our How to Make a Fitness Journal tutorial.
#9: Money Journal
A money journal is a personal record where individuals track their income, expenses, savings, and financial goals. They can help people control over their finances, manage their budget, and make informed decisions to achieve their financial aspirations, such as saving for major purchases or achieving long-term financial security.
Some prompts for a money journal might include:
- Analyze your recent spending habits.
- Set a specific financial goal for the month.
- Reflect on a successful money-saving strategy.
- Record unexpected expenses and how you managed them.
- Explore your feelings about money and wealth.
If you'd like to create a money journal for yourself or your customers, we have a money journal template here.
You can also read or watch our How to Make a Money Journal tutorial.
#10: Morning Pages Journal
A morning pages journal is a daily practice of writing three pages of stream-of-consciousness thoughts, as introduced by Julia Cameron in her book "The Artist's Way."
People keep morning pages journals to clear their minds, tap into their creativity, and address personal issues, fostering self-discovery and artistic expression.
Morning pages are generally free writing pages without prompts, but one could build on the benefits of using morning journals by adding pages with weekly guided reflection or exploring new ideas and discoveries.
If you'd like to create a morning pages journal for yourself or your customers, we have a morning pages journal template here.
#11: Goals Journal
A goals journal is a personal notebook where individuals record their aspirations, set specific objectives, and outline strategies to achieve them.
People like to keep goals journals to stay focused, track their progress, and hold themselves accountable, helping them turn their dreams into tangible accomplishments.
Some custom pages that might included in a goals journal include:
- Goal Setting
- Action Plan
- Progress Tracker
- Obstacle Overcoming
- Reflection on Progress and Results
If you'd like to create a goals journal for yourself or your customers, we have a goals journal template here.
#12: Productivity Journal
A productivity journal is a tool individuals use to track tasks, manage time, and enhance efficiency in their daily activities.
People might use a productivity journal to stay organized, set goals, and optimize their workflow, fostering a sense of accomplishment and better time management.
Some prompts that might be included in a productivity journal...
- List the top three priorities for today.
- Reflect on your most productive moment.
- Identify a time-wasting activity to minimize.
- Plan three specific tasks for tomorrow.
- Note any unexpected challenges and solutions.
If you'd like to create a productivity journal ffor yourself or your customers, we have a productivity journal template here.
#13: Movie Journal
A movie journal is a personal record where movie lovers document their thoughts, reviews, and reflections on films they've watched.
People like to keep movie journals to capture their cinematic experiences, analyze their preferences, and have a reference for movie recommendations and personal reflections.
Some prompts that might be included n a movie journal:
- Describe the plot of the last movie you watched.
- Share your favorite scene and why it stood out.
- Reflect on the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.
- Compare the movie to others by the same director or genre.
- Note any memorable quotes or dialogue.
If you'd like to create a movie journal for yourself or your customers, we have a movie journal template here.
#14: Wine Journal
A wine journal is a personal log where wine lovers record details about the wines they taste, including varietals, tasting notes, and personal preferences.
People like wine journals as they serve as a refined means to develop their palate, document memorable experiences, and enhance their overall appreciation for different wines.
Some prompts that could be added to a wine journal:
- Describe the aroma and flavor notes of the last wine you tasted.
- Reflect on the occasion and atmosphere while enjoying the wine.
- Explore a new grape varietal or region this month...and record your notes.
- Compare and contrast two wines in terms of taste and preferences.
- Share a wine-related anecdote or memory.
If you'd like to create a wine journal for yourself or your customers, we have a wine journal template here.
#15: Baby Journal
A baby journal is a keepsake where parents document and capture milestones, memories, and special moments in their child's early years.
Baby journals provide a tangible and cherished record, allowing parents to revisit and share the precious memories of their child's growth and development.
Some pages that might be included in a baby journal:
- Milestones Pages
- Baby's Favorites
- Letters to Baby
- Family Adventures
If you'd like to create a baby journal for yourself or your customers, we have a baby journal template here.
#16: Wedding Journal
A wedding journal is a personal record to document the planning process, emotions, and memories leading up to and following a wedding day.
People appreciate wedding journals as they serve as a cherished keepsake, preserving the unique moments and details of one of the most significant events in their lives.
Some writing prompts that might be included in a wedding journal:
- Reflect on the moment you knew you wanted to get married.
- Describe the emotions you felt during your wedding vows.
- Share a funny or unexpected moment from your wedding day.
- Discuss the significance of your chosen wedding venue.
- Write about your vision for the future with your partner.
If you'd like to create a wedding journal for yourself or your customers, we have a wedding journal template here.
#17: Holiday Journals
The holidays offer endless opportunities for journals. They are a great way to plan and organize. They can offer stress relief. They are also a great way to preserve memories and reflect. And most importantly, they can be key in immersing oneself in the true and deeper meaning of the holiday.
A few examples might include, but of course, there are far more than this.
Christmas Journal
A Christmas journal can be a log where individuals capture their holiday traditions, festive experiences, and cherished moments during the Christmas season. Christmas journals provide a nostalgic record of the joy, warmth, and unique celebrations shared with loved ones, serving as a sentimental reminder of holiday magic.
Some prompts for a Christmas journal might include:
- Describe a favorite holiday tradition or ritual.
- Share a cherished Christmas memory from your childhood.
- Reflect on the most meaningful gift you've received or given.
- Capture the sights, sounds, and scents that define your holiday.
- Write about a special moment spent with loved ones during Christmas.
If you'd like to create a Christmas journal for yourself or your customers, we have a Christmas journal template here.
You can also read or watch our How to Make a Christmas Journal Tutorial.
Ramadan Journal
A Ramadan journal can serve as a personal diary where individuals document their reflections, prayers, and experiences during the holy month of Ramadan, which holds significant spiritual and cultural importance in Islam.
Ramadan allows observers to deepen their connection with their faith, track their personal growth, and express gratitude for the blessings experienced during this sacred period.
Some pages a Ramadan journal might include:
- Daily Reflections: Record thoughts, prayers, and reflections each day.
- Gratitude Log: List things you are grateful for during Ramadan.
- Spiritual Goals: Set and track personal spiritual objectives.
- Acts of Kindness Page: Document acts of kindness or charity performed.
- Recipe Page: Note special recipes or meals enjoyed during Iftar.
If you'd like to create a Ramadan journal for yourself or your customers, we have a Ramadan journal template here.
You can also read or watch our Make a Ramadan Journal Tutorial here.
Yom Kippur Journal
A Yom Kippur journal can serve as a personal record where individuals document their reflections, prayers, and introspections during the Day of Atonement, a solemn and significant day in the Jewish faith.
It can provide provide a space for self-examination, repentance, and spiritual growth, enabling individuals to connect more deeply with their faith and seek forgiveness for any shortcomings.
Some pages a Yom Kippur journal might include:
- Reflect on the Past Year: Document significant events and personal growth.
- Gratitude Page: List aspects of your life for which you are grateful.
- Forgiveness Letters: Write letters seeking forgiveness and offering forgiveness to others.
- Prayer Requests: Include specific prayers for personal and communal well-being.
- Commitments for the Coming Year: Outline spiritual and personal goals for the future.
If you'd like to create a Yom Kippur journal for yourself or your customers, we have a Yom Kippur journal template here.
#18: Journals for the Seasons
The changing seasons are also a great time to reflect, build gratitude and enjoy the changes the seasons of the year bring. Many people have a favorite season and love to keep their memories of it. Others struggle with the changes of certain seasons, so these journals can help people build a new appreciation for all the days of the year.
Here are some thoughts on journals for the specific seasons...
Winter Journal
A winter journal allows people capture their experiences, reflections, and activities during the winter season, encompassing both the festive holidays and the unique elements of colder weather.
Keeping a winter journal is beneficial as it provides an avenue for self-expression, preserves memories of seasonal traditions, and fosters a sense of mindfulness, allowing individuals to appreciate the beauty and significance of the winter months. It can also be a therapeutic opportunity for those affected by seasonal affective disorder.
Some pages a winter journal might include:
- Favorite Winter Memory: Document a cherished moment from the season.
- Winter Wonderland: Describe the beauty of a snowy day or winter landscape.
- Cozy Moments: Reflect on the warmth and comfort of winter indoors.
- Holiday Traditions: Write about your favorite winter holiday traditions.
- New Year's Reflections: Set intentions and reflect on the year ahead.
If you'd like to create a Winter journal for yourself or your customers, we have a winter journal template here.
Summer Journal
A summer journal is a great way to capture experiences, adventures, and reflections during the summer season, encompassing vacations, outdoor activities, and warm-weather moments.
It can become a nostalgic keepsake, preserving the joy and vitality of summertime, and allows individuals to reflect on their growth, leisure, and the unique pleasures associated with the season.
Some pages a summer journal might include:
- Summer Adventures: Document a memorable summer excursion or trip.
- Favorite Outdoor Activities: Write about activities you enjoy in the warm weather.
- Summer Goals: Set personal goals for the season and track your progress.
- Seasonal Sensations: Describe the sights, sounds, and smells of summer.
- Reflections on Growth: Reflect on personal growth and lessons learned during the summer.
If you'd like to create a summer journal for yourself or your customers, we have a summer journal template here.
Spring Journal
Some pages a summer journal might include:
- Floral Observations: Document the blooming flowers and plants you encounter.
- Springtime Adventures: Record outdoor activities and explorations.
- Seasonal Sensations: Describe the scents, sounds, and colors of spring.
- Growth and Renewal: Reflect on personal growth and renewed energy.
- Spring Goals: Set intentions for the season and track your progress.
If you'd like to create a spring journal for yourself or your customers, we have a spring journal template here.
Autumn Journal
An autumn journal is a great way to document the unique experiences, colors, and sensations of the fall season, capturing the beauty of changing leaves and the crispness in the air.
It can provide an avenue for reflection on transitions, gratitude for harvests, and a means to savor the distinctive qualities that characterize this season of transformation.
Some pages a winter journal might include:
- Foliage Tracker: Document the changing colors of autumn leaves.
- Cozy Moments: Reflect on the warmth and comfort of fall indoors.
- Harvest Celebrations: Record experiences related to fall festivals or gatherings.
- Seasonal Sensations: Describe the scents, sounds, and tastes of autumn.
- Gratitude Page: List things you are thankful for during the fall season.
If you'd like to create an autumn journal for yourself or your customers, we have an autumn journal template here.
#19: Prayer Journal
A prayer journal can help express their thoughts, reflections, and conversations with a higher power, fostering a deeper connection to their spirituality. Keeping a prayer journal provides a dedicated space for contemplation, a means to track spiritual growth, and a tangible record of one's faith journey.
Some pages a prayer journal might include:
- Gratitude Page: Express thanks for blessings and positive experiences.
- Intercession Log: Record prayers for others and global concerns.
- Personal Reflections: Share thoughts and emotions during prayer sessions.
- Scripture Insights: Document verses or passages that resonate.
- Answered Prayers: Create a page to acknowledge and reflect on answered prayers.
If you'd like to create a prayer journal for yourself or your customers, we have a prayer journal template here.
#20: Positivity Affirmations Journal
A positivity affirmations journal is a place to write and reflect on positive affirmations, fostering a more optimistic mindset and self-empowerment.
It can cultivate a habit of positive thinking, boosts self-confidence, and provides a tangible reminder of one's strengths and aspirations.
Some pages a positivity affirmations journal might include:
- Daily Affirmation: Write a positive statement to set the tone for the day.
- Self-Love Reflection: Reflect on qualities you appreciate about yourself.
- Achievement Acknowledgment: Affirm past accomplishments and successes.
- Challenge Coping Affirmation: Develop a positive affirmation for overcoming challenges.
- Future Aspirations: Write affirmations aligned with your goals and aspirations.
If you'd like to create a positivity affirmations journal for yourself or your customers, we have a positivity affirmations journal template here.
#21: Weight Loss Journal
A weight loss is place to document fitness routines, dietary choices, and weight loss progress, providing a comprehensive record of a wellness journey.
Keeping a weight loss journal offers the benefits of accountability, self-reflection, and motivation, helping individuals track their efforts, identify patterns, and stay focused on their health goals.
Some prompts that could be included in a weight loss journal:
- Daily Food Log: Document meals, snacks, and water intake.
- Workout Reflection: Record exercises, duration, and intensity.
- Mood and Eating: Reflect on emotions linked to food choices.
- Weekly Progress: Track weight changes and measurements.
- Healthy Habits: Set and review achievable wellness goals.
If you'd like to create a weight loss journal for yourself or your customers, we have a weight loss journal template here.
#22: Mood Journal
A mood journal allows you to record and reflect your emotions, providing insights into your mental well-being and helps manage stress. It can foster emotional awareness, fostering self-regulation, and facilitating a deeper understanding of patterns and triggers that impact one's overall mood.
Some prompts that could be included in a mood journal:
- Morning Emotions: Reflect on your feelings as you start the day.
- Emotional Triggers: Identify situations or events affecting your mood.
- Gratitude Log: List things you're thankful for to boost positivity.
- Evening Reflection: Evaluate your overall mood and emotions before bedtime.
- Self-Care Check-In: Document activities that contribute to your well-being.
If you'd like to create a mood journal for yourself or your customers, we have a mood journal template here.
#23: Parenting Journal
A parenting journal can be a place to document experiences, challenges, and joys of raising children, serving as a reflective tool for self-improvement and a tangible record of family life. It's great for self-reflection, emotional processing, and a resource for valuable insights, helping parents navigate the complexities of parenthood and strengthen their connection with their children.
Some prompts that could be included in a parenting journal:
- Parenting Highs and Lows: Reflect on both challenging and rewarding moments.
- Quality Time Log: Document special activities or conversations with your children.
- Parenting Goals: Set intentions for your parenting approach and growth.
- Challenges and Solutions: Record parenting challenges and brainstorm solutions.
- Gratitude for Parenthood: Express gratitude for the joys and privileges of being a parent.
If you'd like to create a parenting journal for yourself or your customers, we have a parenting journal template here.
#24: Self-Reflection Journal
A self-reflection journal is place for introspection, exploring thoughts, emotions, and experiences as a means of fostering self-awareness and personal growth. It can enhance emotional intelligence, clarify personal values, and provide a dedicated space for contemplation, contributing to a more fulfilling and intentional life.
Some prompts that could be included in a self-reflection journal:
- Daily Reflections: Record thoughts and feelings at the end of each day.
- Personal Growth: Document areas of self-improvement and progress.
- Challenges and Solutions: Reflect on obstacles and brainstorm solutions.
- Achievement Acknowledgement: Celebrate personal successes and milestones.
- Future Aspirations: Set goals and intentions for your personal development.
If you'd like to create a self-reflection journal for yourself or your customers, we have a self-reflection journal template here.
#25: Gardening Journal
A gardening journal allows documentation of gardening activities, observations, and experiences, providing a valuable resource for planning, learning, and cultivating a thriving garden. It can help keep track of plant growth, identifying successful cultivation techniques, and fostering a deeper connection with the garden, serving as a tool for both novice and experienced gardeners to refine skills and celebrate the beauty of indoor and outdoor spaces.
Some pages and prompts that could be included in a gardening journal:
- Planting Log: Record dates, types, and locations of plantings.
- Growth Observations: Track the development and changes in your plants.
- Seasonal Reflections: Reflect on the impact of weather and seasons on your garden.
- Challenges and Solutions: Document issues faced and strategies applied.
- Future Planting Plans: Plan and envision the next steps for your garden.
If you'd like to create a gardening journal for yourself or your customers, we have a gardening journal template here.
You can also read or watch our Make a Gardening Journal Tutorial.
#26: Worry Journal
A worry journal offers a space to write down worries, anxieties, and concerns as a means of externalizing and managing stress. It can provide a therapeutic outlet, facilitate self-reflection, and enable individuals to identify patterns and triggers, ultimately contributing to a more proactive and balanced approach to coping with worries.
Some pages and prompts that could be included in a worry journal:
- Current Worries: List and describe specific concerns on your mind.
- Worry Triggers: Identify situations or thoughts that intensify anxiety.
- Worry Outcome Reflection: Reflect on past worries and their resolutions.
- Positive Affirmations: Write down affirmations to counteract negative thoughts.
- Worry Release: Explore ways to let go or manage current worries effectively.
If you'd like to create a worry journal for yourself or your customers, we have a worry journal template here.
#27: Pregnancy Journal
A pregnancy journal is a great place document experiences, emotions, and milestones during pregnancy, serving as a meaningful keepsake and a tool for self-reflection. It can have the benefits of fostering a connection with the unborn child, providing a space to express maternal thoughts and preparations, and preserving a unique record of the journey to motherhood.
Some pages and prompts that could be included in a pregnancy journal:
- Weekly Milestones: Document changes in your body and the baby's development.
- Emotional Reflections: Express your feelings and thoughts about impending motherhood.
- Preparations Log: Record preparations made for the baby's arrival.
- Anticipation and Hopes: Write about your expectations and hopes for the future.
- Support System: Reflect on the support received from family and friends during pregnancy.
If you'd like to create a pregnancy journal for yourself or your customers, we have a pregnancy journal template here.
#28: Birthday Journal
A birthday journal offers a place to reflect on their past year, set intentions for the upcoming one, and capture the essence of their birthday celebrations.
It can provide a space for self-reflection, gratitude, and goal-setting, allowing individuals to mark milestones, acknowledge personal growth, and create a meaningful record of their life journey.
Some pages a birthday journal might include:
- Reflect and Celebrate: Write about memorable moments from the past year.
- Gratitude Log: List people, experiences, and things you're grateful for.
- Birthday Wishes: Set intentions and goals for the upcoming year.
- Special Celebrations: Document details of your birthday festivities.
- Self-Appreciation: Write about qualities and achievements you value in yourself.
If you'd like to create a birthday journal for yourself or your customers, we have a birthday journal template here.
So Many Journals and So Many Possibilities!
As you can see there are so many ways people can journal and topics they can touch on. Add to that, journaling has so many benefits. They can serve as documentation and to preserve cherished memories. They can be therapeutic in working out emotional issues...or more practical in working out daily or complex problems. The often foster a practice of gratitude, which can improve the general well being about just about any person who wants to embark on journaling.
We hope you found this a helpful look into a variety of types of journals. As you saw above, we have lots of templates you can pick up in Canva format, which means you can edit them fully to your own needs. You can use them for your own personal journals or turn them into products for sale. If you love journaling, why not share your own unique perspective on journaling by customizing them for sale and sharing them in an Etsy Shop or on your own website?
If you are a journal seller, we do have a great opportunity to pick up 33 of our Canva journal templates a great price. You can learn more about the 33 Canva journal mega pack here.
Either way, we're probably preaching to the choir when we say journaling is such a powerful to bring more happiness and satisfaction to our lives, so we'll leave the next step up to you and say, Happy Journaling!
2 comments
Thanks, Alice, you were really helpful when explaining and giving examples. Love that / Lars
This was so very helpfual as I was not aware that you could make a journal for almost any subject. This gave me so much inspiration to keep going on my journal-making journey. As a “Newbie”, just deciding what to create can be very scary and overwhelming as you try to figure out what your Niche is; but, just reading this post was very helpful in giving me many more ideas to work with.
Thank you