Guided vs. Blank Journals: Which One is Right for You?
If you're just getting started with journaling—or looking to expand your collection—you might be wondering: Should I choose a guided journal or a blank journal? Both offer unique benefits depending on your goals, writing style, and how structured you want your journaling practice to be.
In this post, we’ll explore the key differences between guided and blank journals, the benefits of each, and how to choose the right type of journal for your personal journey.
What Is a Guided Journal?
A guided journal includes pre-written prompts, questions, and reflections to help you explore specific topics or themes. These journals are great for people who:
- Feel overwhelmed by a blank page
- Want to focus on a specific goal like gratitude, self-discovery, or healing, or a specific event, like an engagement or wedding
- Prefer structure in their journaling practice
- Are new to journaling and want a place to start
Popular types of guided journals include:
- Gratitude journals
- Wellness and mental health journals
- Travel journals
- Pregnancy and parenting journals
- Grief or healing journals
- Goal-setting and productivity planners
What Is a Blank Journal?
A blank journal gives you complete freedom to write, draw, sketch, plan, or decorate as you choose. These journals are perfect for:
- Creative thinkers who like flexibility
- Bullet journaling and habit tracking
- Sketching and artistic expression
- Planning and goal setting in your own style
- Scrapbooking or memory-keeping
- Brain-dumping and free writing
Blank notebooks often come in different formats—lined, dotted, grid, or plain—so you can choose what best suits your writing or drawing style.
So… Guided or Blank?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Goal or Activity | Best Journal Type |
|---|---|
| Daily gratitude practice | Guided Journal |
| Creative writing or sketching | Blank Journal |
| Coping with grief or healing | Guided Journal |
| Organizing to-do lists | Blank (or dotted) |
| Exploring your inner self | Guided Journal |
| Custom planning or layouts | Blank or Bullet |
Many Journalers Use Both!
You don’t have to pick just one. Many people use a guided journal for focused reflection and a blank journal for creativity or planning. Pairing the two can help you build a deeper, more sustainable journaling habit.
Start Your Journaling Journey Today
Whether you choose a structured guided journal or a freeform blank notebook, what matters most is that you're taking the time to write. Your story matters—and you get to decide how it's told.
Explore our handpicked selection of guided journals and blank notebooks to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and goals.