the_abby•2d ago

My team thought my bullet journal was just doodles until it saved our meeting from going off-track.

Now they ask to see my notes before we start, which goes against the whole 'keep it personal' advice.

3 comments

3 Comments

jenny1832d ago

But isn't the point to make a system that works for you, even if others use it?

jesse_lopez142d ago

Hold on, Jenny183, that's mixing up two different things. A system that works for you is personal because it's full of your own shortcuts and messy first thoughts. The minute other people start using it, you have to clean it up and explain it, which changes the whole thing. It becomes a team tool, not your personal tool. The real trick is knowing which parts of your process need to stay private so they keep working for you.

ross.dakota2d ago

Jenny183 has a point about systems working for you even if others use it. I read an article that called this "accidental collaboration." When someone's personal system is that GOOD, it naturally becomes a tool for the group. Your doodles and symbols probably made complex points clear in a way normal notes don't. The trick is you might need a new, truly personal notebook now, or just a few pages they don't see. The system you built can still work for the team, while you keep your own messy process for yourself.