Lets Get Lateral.
I find mind mapping to be a really gratifying and more importantly, fun way of capturing and exploring an idea. It’s a great way of untangling an issue or looking at something laterally instead of the usual step by step analytical “problem solving” method. It offers you an alternative way to unwind the tangle of wool and come up with some surprising alternatives in the process. As well as mind mapping for myself, I frequently introduce mapping sessions to my clients, either there and then in the coaching session or as an inquiry for homework, it’s a great way to get exploring a metaphorical concept visually and feels much more fun than taxing.
There are numerous ways of creating mind maps, I use two. Pen’s and paper and software, both on my Mac and on my iPhone. I recommend playing with a combination that suits you most effectively. The current set up for me allows me to explore a thought or idea stream whenever I get the calling to do so. When at home, I suggest a nice big pad of paper, A3 minimum and as many coloured pens as you can lay your hands on! When the idea strikes, grab your pad and start mapping. On my Mac, I use a great piece of software called “Mind Node” which is free and incredibly easy to just jump into and get going-this is the essence of great mapping software, simple and powerful software that isn’t going to slow you down. Go grab a copy. On my iPhone (can’t always cart my A2 pad around with me on the train) I use a fabulous application called “Simple Mind” which again, is very simple to just dive straight into when inspiration strikes. Simple Mind is responsive enough that you can just fire it up and begin in seconds. Check it out here.
If you want to play with some other software, there’s a plethora of wonderful mind mapping and brain dumping title’s out there and lots of them are free: Click here
Here’s a few different styles of mind maps to get you all inspired, don’t feel limited to these though, devise your own too!
Finally, one of the beautiful things about mind mapping is that there are no rules. It doesn’t have to make sense, imagination is at play and there’s no right or wrong, this is incredibly liberating when we are so used to problem/solution thinking patterns. Have fun with it, it’s amazing what unexpected clarity and alternative idea’s sprout from these beautiful tree like structures.
I agree!!!!
Mind Mapping ipens up a whole new world for professional coaches.
1st, it helps you get organized.
2nd, its a great tool with clients for a number or applications:
– Vision
– Highlighting strengths and areas for improvement
– Reviewing facts and feelings for decision making
– Exploting alternatives
For coaching, I combine these tools with GoToMeeting or GoToWebinar so the coach and client are on the same page realtime developing the map!
I use MindJet Mind Manager (I am an executive coach, engineer, executive).
My wife uses iMindMap (She is an artist, creativity coach, occupational therapist, nature lover).
Both of these tools are featured at http://allthingscoaching.com/BizStorePages/Productivity.html
Try mind mapping — it will change how you think and work.
Chuck Schroeder on June 23, 2009It’s a great tool for dumping and organizing the contents of one’s brain! Also provides a visual for possible interconnectedness between thoughts, helping the “user” to synergize, amplify efforts. I noticed a time management tool/planner that incorporates a mind-mapping page, as well as including the concept of using high and low times of day (like biorhythms) as part of their time management principles. Very cool! Love the references to mindmapping tools online. Great for our electronic world.
Nancy Trojanowski on June 25, 2009I think I will try to recommend this post to my friends and family, cuz it’s really helpful.
KonstantinMiller on July 7, 2009