Strategize Organize LLC
Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 8
Background
Recently, a number of my clients have talked with me about their use or interest in mind mapping. If you aren't sure what mind mapping is, it’s a visual way to track thinking ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mind_map). I used a lot of mind mapping when I taught, although we called it webbing. The thing that I most appreciate about mind mapping is that it's another way to see my thoughts: it usually gives me a new perspective; it helps me organize. I came across a fun article " 5 Reasons To Stop Mind Mapping Immediately" ( http://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/5-reasons-stop-mind-mapping-immediately.html). Take a look if you want to learn more about how to use mind mapping and when to stop.
In this newsletter I've included examples of different mind maps and also different apps in case you want to make one using digital technology. I've tried to find topics and maps that my clients identify with, like starting a new adventure.
Mind Maps Created by Hand
Tony Buzan ( http://www.tonybuzan.com) has a lot of great mind maps. I love how beautiful his maps are; they are good examples of visual thinking. Of course you don't need to be an artist. Getting the ideas down on paper is the important part.
Mind Maps Created with Digital Technology
This map, "How to Take Action," found at novamind.com, offers a number of different approaches to taking action. Mind maps can be colorful, connecting ideas in bubbles and lines to show a number of different levels or layers to an action.
This map, found at pcworld.com, includes a task list and collects ideas in a number of categories.
This blank mind map at mindmeister.com is very simple.
Apps for Making Mind Maps
Life Hacker (http://lifehacker.com/five-best-mind-mapping-tools-476534555) lists their top five mind mapping tools plus two others that they really liked. I'll list them here by which device can run them. I've added Mindmeister to this list as I used it for one of my examples in this newsletter. These apps are a good place to start; other apps exist that you might want to use as well.
Mac
Mindjet free
XMind free
Freemind free
MindNode free
Scapple $14.99
SimpleMind free
Windows
Mindjet free
XMind free
Freemind free
Scapple $14.99
SimpleMind free
iOS
Mindjet free
MindNode $9.99
SimpleMind free
Mindmeister free
Android
Mindjet free
SimpleMind free
Mindmeister free
Webapp
Coggle free
Mindmeister free
Summary
If you haven't ever mind mapped, I suggest you give it a try on paper or a white board, just to see what it is like before moving to a digital app format. It'd be great to hear from those who have used mind mapping. Do you use paper pencil or an app? Why do you like mind mapping?
Take care,
Susan
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