15 Fun Ways to Fill Your Empty Notebook

Do you have a bunch of empty notebooks just collecting dust? Same here! I used to be such a stationery hoarder, and I'd get so excited buying new notebooks – only for them to sit untouched in a drawer for years. Honestly, I feel bad for them now!

There's something so thrilling about getting a fresh notebook, though, right? All that blank space just waiting to be filled... it's like endless possibilities! The excitement of opening it up, feeling the crisp pages – it's intoxicating, but also a little scary. Sometimes that first blank page can be a bit overwhelming, like you'll mess it up somehow. But I've decided it's time to actually use them. I have to try!

So, if you're like me with way too many empty notebooks (or even just a couple), here are 10 fun ways to fill them up and finally put them to good use!

1. Bullet journal

I just have to mention the bullet journal! It's such a great mix of planning and journalling, and honestly, it's one of the best ways to get organized. It's like part planner, part diary, and you can totally customize it to fit your style – whether you want to keep it simple or go all out with cute designs. You can use any dot or grid notebook you already have lying around!

2. Gratitude journal

In this fast-paced world, it's so easy to overlook the little things we should be grateful for. That's where a gratitude journal comes in handy! It's a simple way to reconnect with all the good in your life. Each day, jot down anything that made you smile, no matter how big or small. Over time, this can help you build a more positive mindset, and reduce stress. Plus, it's such a sweet way to add more joy to your everyday life!

3. Recipe book

If cooking is your jam, why not turn an empty notebook into a recipe book? Jot down your favorite recipes or new ones you're eager to try. Include notes about the occasions you cooked a dish, the people you shared it with, or their reactions. This will transform your notebook into a personal culinary diary. My mom still has her old recipe book, and every time I crack it open, I can't help but smile. 

4. Unsent letters

I think this is the perfect choice for one of my blank notebooks! Just the idea of it makes me feel excited about starting a therapeutic journey where I can pour my heart out onto paper without the pressure of hitting send. It feels like such a powerful way to process heavy emotions – and honestly, I really need that right now.

5. Lettering practice book

I have one, and it's the best! If you're into calligraphy and hand lettering, you know you need to practice to improve. So why not use one of your empty notebooks? Grab your Tombows or Pentels and go wild! Hand lettering is not just a fun way to get creative; it can also be meditative, helping you relax and focus.

6. Personal finance journal

Want to become financially savvy? Keep a personal finance journal! Focus on paying off debt, creating an emergency fund, or saving for your dream home. Tracking your expenses can help you develop better spending habits. I've been doing this since 2020, and it's been a game-changer! It really helps you stay mindful about your finances, and looking back at all my money diaries is honestly kind of wild. I even have pages where I share my experiences – both the highs and the lows – of taking on the low buy challenge. It was quite the journey!

7. Memory journal or diary

A memory journal is a personal keepsake where you jot down your life's moments, thoughts, feelings, and experiences. You can also add photos, ticket stubs, drawings, or any special mementos. 

8. Bucket list

This is a great chance for you to dream up all the amazing things you want to do in life. Having a notebook for your bucket lists and 'to-try' lists can help you keep track of all the exciting stuff. Plus, crossing things off your list gives you a nice little boost of joy and accomplishment!

9. Sketchbook

If you have a blank notebook with no lines or grids, it's a perfect candidate for a sketchbook! You don't need fancy paper to doodle or jot down your rough ideas. Just grab a pencil or pen and let your imagination flow!

10. Daily highlight journal

A daily highlight journal is all about noting one special moment from each day. It can be something that made you laugh, a sweet gesture, a milestone, a surprise, or anything that brightened your day. On those low-energy days, I love flipping to this one – it's a breeze to focus on the positives!

11. Poems

Not everyone is a poet, but if you are, your notebook could be a treasure trove of beautiful verses! Write down your thoughts in a poetic form. Who knows, you might just be the next big thing in poetry!

12. Language learning journal

If you're learning a new language (I'm currently trying to tackle Korean!), a language learning journal is a great way to keep track of your progress and new vocabulary. It'll make your learning journey a lot smoother!

13. Blog log

I used to have a notebook for planning and drafting, but I don't do much paper planning for my blog anymore – everything's on my laptop now. I still have the notebook, though, and I think I could definitely use the unused pages for planning again! You can too! Jot down your plans and track your blog's success in a notebook. It's a great way to stay organized and keep everything on track!

14. Swatch notebook

If you love colors and art supplies, create a swatch notebook for your gel pens, brush pens, and other art materials. Swatching them while listening to your favorite music adds a cozy vibe to the process!

15. Lists

List-making is an art form! From to-do lists to places you want to eat and movies recommendations, the possibilities are endless. While some people prefer digital lists, I love making gorgeous lists on paper. It keeps me excited to reference and check things off!

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What's your favorite way to use your empty notebooks?