How Illustrated Journaling Became My Life-Changing Habit
When I was in my late 30s, I picked up a habit, and it’s a habit that completely changed my life. I wanna tell you what that habit is, why you should get it, and then I’m gonna take you through a seven-day challenge that will get you hooked. My addiction is to illustrated journaling.
Introduction to Illustrated Journaling
What Is Illustrated Journaling? It’s a form of diary, a form of journal that also involves simple drawings, and it’s very powerful because you have the combination of words and drawings, simple drawings. It’s not about creating perfect art…
You Don’t Need to Be an Artist to Get Started
It doesn’t matter if you’re good at drawing or not. The beauty is in the process and how accessible it is to everyone—no skills required.
More Than Just a Journal: It’s Therapy on Paper
Keeping an illustrated journal goes beyond writing or sketching. It’s a mindful, therapeutic practice that helps you reflect and reduce stress, while turning everyday moments into something meaningful.
What You Need to Begin (It’s Less Than You Think)
You don’t need fancy supplies to get started. All you need is a pen and a notebook. That’s it. Don’t overthink it—just start capturing your thoughts and moments.
7-Day Illustrated Journaling Challenge for Beginners: Daily Prompts to Spark Your Creativity
Day 1: Breakfast and Morning Thoughts Sketch
Start your day by sketching your breakfast, coffee cup, or morning mood. Add some thoughts—what’s on your mind?
Day 2: Document Your Outfit of the Day (OOTD) and How It Makes You Feel
Capture what you’re wearing. Label items, add notes about how they feel or why you chose them.
Day 3: Journal Your Favorite Book or Song Through Simple Drawings
Draw the cover of a book you’re reading or let music inspire abstract doodles. Document what resonates with you.
Day 4: Capture a Beloved Pet, Plant, or Object in Your Life
Capture the essence of a pet, plant, or object you love. Add a few thoughts about its presence in your life.
Day 5: Sketch a Place You Visited and Reflect on the Experience
Whether it’s the grocery store or a cathedral, sketch the space and write what it felt like to be there.
Day 6: Illustrate a Quiet, Peaceful Moment for Yourself
Document a calm moment—a cup of tea, the sunset, or just you in stillness. Reflect through words and lines.
Day 7: Wind Down with a Bedtime Reflection and Final Sketch
As you wind down, journal from bed. Reflect on your week and sketch anything you like—your feet, your thoughts, your growth.
Build a Habit That Brings Mindfulness and Creativity
You can do these prompts daily or at your own pace. The key is to keep your sketchbook close and let it become part of your daily routine.
Why Illustrated Journaling Is a Powerful Life Practice
This creative practice doesn’t require talent, time, or tools—just intention. It helps you slow down, appreciate small moments, and cultivate mindfulness.
How This Simple Practice Changed My Life
What started as a daily 10-minute activity led me to deeper creativity, community, and personal peace. Over time, I’ve filled shelves with journals full of meaningful pages.
Ready to Start? Your Illustrated Story Awaits
You don’t need permission or perfection. Just start. Use art and words to reflect, connect, and grow—one page at a time.
