Many people are looking for ways to reduce their screen time, and in 2026, I decided to try something unconventional: junk journaling. The goal is simple – redirect compulsive scrolling toward a creative outlet that involves physical objects, not endless feeds.
What is Junk Journaling?
The concept sounds odd at first. “Junk” implies waste, but junk journaling turns discarded scraps into art. Think old receipts, ticket stubs, handwritten notes, packaging labels—anything flat that holds a memory. It’s a blend of scrapbooking, journaling, and upcycling, but with one key difference: there are no rules. Unlike perfectionist hobbies, junk journaling thrives on imperfection and spontaneity.
Why I Tried It
I’m the type who saves sentimental items instead of throwing them away. Birthday cards, event wristbands… they end up in boxes collecting dust. Junk journaling felt like a way to give these objects a new purpose. I’d been seeing the trend for a while and decided 2026 was the year to finally dive in.
From Recipes to Memories
As an editorial assistant for The Kitchn, my life revolves around food. So, naturally, my “junk” became culinary-themed: recipe printouts, packaging from taste tests, even stickers from fruit. This shift in perspective was immediately rewarding.
The result has been unexpected but profound. I’m more mindful of the moments I want to preserve and, strangely, more present in those moments themselves. The act of seeking out “junk” forces me to pay attention.
The Little Things Matter
It’s not just big events. Junk journaling highlights the small joys: the cute packaging of a new water bottle, the preference for unwrapped Reese’s after a taste test. These everyday details, often lost to the scroll, now feel significant.
If you’re looking for a way to break free from endless scrolling and rediscover the tangible world, junk journaling might be worth a try. It’s a low-pressure creative outlet that rewards curiosity and encourages mindful observation.
Ultimately, this hobby isn’t just about reducing screen time; it’s about reclaiming attention and finding value in the overlooked details of daily life.
