Mind Maps

I first learned about mind mapping in my MBA elective on innovation, but only recently rediscovered it following our Vision in Action workshop, when someone mentioned they used it to map out their vision board! It was a huge light bulb moment for me. Tools are meant to be added to your toolbox so that you can pull them out when you have the specific need! Need a hammer - pull out a hammer. Need a softer touch? How about a rubber mallet?

A mind map isn’t a “softer touch” per say. It’s another tool - a different way to visualize your topic, using words to represent concepts, ideas, or items, and then draws the relationships between those things and how it relates to the main idea. A guy named Tony Buzan invented the concept after being inspired by techniques used by Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, and Joseph D. Novak's "concept mapping" technique. He’s gone on to write more books and certify people on mind mapping. I don’t think you’ll need that level of understanding to put this to use!

Why a mind map? One simple word - focus. Mind Maps help you focus on one topic and to branch out from that topic all things related to that topic - influences, what’s needed to make that topic successful, who should be involved, etc. It’s the natural path of your brain and it works those paths to your advantage to creatively break down a concept, and also familiarize yourself with its details. It’s also helpful when you’re hoping to focus a brainstorming session with a group.

So how do I get started?

• Start with the main topic

• Branch out with the subtopics that are most central to that topic.

• Let your brain make all the relevant connections it needs to make sense and add value from the mind map!

• Use colors and visuals if that makes it more impactful. Be creative!

There aren’t many rules to a mind map - it’s what you create it to be that helps you learn, understand and process that topic. Your brain works differently than anyone else’s so it shouldn’t look like anyone else’s. Have fun with it and be sure to share your experiences with mind mapping. Special thank you to Emily for inspiring this post! Want to learn more? I found this helpful.

The start of a mind map for tools for goal setting.