If you’re guilty of starting a bullet journal at the beginning of a new year, a new season, or just after a new notebook purchase, and then abandoning the project not long after—you're far from alone.

Megan Portorreal is an avid journaler. A copywriter and former editor who lives in New York City, Portorreal, 28, says journaling helps her manage her busy life, keep track of her to-dos and document ...