Mind mapping is a highly effective, visual way of getting information out of your brain and onto paper. It is a creative and analytical way of note taking that literally “maps” your ideas. All mind maps have certain things in common. Each has a logical structure that diverges from the center and uses lines, words, colors, and pictures to convert a wide array of ideas into an extremely organized and visual diagram that works in line with your brain’s natural way of processing information.
One way to envision a mind map is to compare it to a tree. The tree’s trunk represents the main idea of the mind map. This could be a problem, a project or a product. From the tree’s trunk, large branches reach out representing the key thoughts that relate to your main topic. Secondary, smaller branches, reach out further from each key thought and represent more detailed information pertaining to each key thought. Ideas of lesser importance or greater details are added to the map as smaller branches. You can use special pictures or shapes to symbolize specific ideas on your map. The more colorful and creative, the better the mind absorbs and embraces the information on the map.
This is a great activity to do with a group or individually. Mind Mapping works extremely well for problem solving or project management. I first learned and used mind mapping as part of a goal setting exercise with wonderful results. My mind map (altered so as not to embarrass myself too much) is shown in the picture above. Although I will tell you that the exercise was really a lot of fun, I won't lie and say it was easy. I really had to think about what I wanted and how I wanted to get it! Ahhh, the power of a really good plan...
There's a plethora of really nifty automated software to mind map out there if you are so inclined. You could also just grab your crayons or pencils and do this completely free hand. Whatever your preference, try one today. Make it a personal mind map or a business related one that solves a problem or plans a project. The technique is powerful and you can do it on your own or as a group. Most of all, have fun with it and make it a reflection of you or your company. You won't be disappointed!
One way to envision a mind map is to compare it to a tree. The tree’s trunk represents the main idea of the mind map. This could be a problem, a project or a product. From the tree’s trunk, large branches reach out representing the key thoughts that relate to your main topic. Secondary, smaller branches, reach out further from each key thought and represent more detailed information pertaining to each key thought. Ideas of lesser importance or greater details are added to the map as smaller branches. You can use special pictures or shapes to symbolize specific ideas on your map. The more colorful and creative, the better the mind absorbs and embraces the information on the map.
This is a great activity to do with a group or individually. Mind Mapping works extremely well for problem solving or project management. I first learned and used mind mapping as part of a goal setting exercise with wonderful results. My mind map (altered so as not to embarrass myself too much) is shown in the picture above. Although I will tell you that the exercise was really a lot of fun, I won't lie and say it was easy. I really had to think about what I wanted and how I wanted to get it! Ahhh, the power of a really good plan...
There's a plethora of really nifty automated software to mind map out there if you are so inclined. You could also just grab your crayons or pencils and do this completely free hand. Whatever your preference, try one today. Make it a personal mind map or a business related one that solves a problem or plans a project. The technique is powerful and you can do it on your own or as a group. Most of all, have fun with it and make it a reflection of you or your company. You won't be disappointed!
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