Have you ever worked on a large project and lost track of all the details? Or maybe you've worked on a smaller project that went bad because of a missed detail? Mind mapping is an excellent technique for keeping track of project details, no matter how big or small.
And you may already use the theory of mind mapping in your projects by using flow charts and sequence diagrams to visualize the project options and possibilities. And even if this process is only done on a sticky note or back of an envelope, the physical and mental process of translating your reasoning into a diagram helps you make better decisions, or at least make difficult decisions more easily.
But, mind maps are more than a great job planning tool. They are a great tool for communicating any thought, idea, concept or task. Mind maps allow us to illustrate components of complex tasks, show the outcomes of a set of actions and identify otherwise unknown linkages.
And anyone can learn how to mind map even my dear old mother has used this technique. Whenever mum plans the family Christmas she draws a simple mind map, with the key themes and tasks written down in circles around the central theme, and lines showing their associations such as guests bringing a plate and how this relates to the main menu for the day. And what can be a stressful occasion for some families becomes a smooth sailing picnic for ours because of the Christmas Day mind map.
Here are some other uses for Mind Maps.
1. Brainstorming ideas for a proposal or new research project.
2. Conceptualizing the structure of your new novel or book.
3. Career or business planning, identifying all options and skills required.
4. Taking notes.
5. Explain your ideas.
7. Teaching or training, to prepare session notes and handouts.
Mind maps greatly help brain function by engaging both sides of the brain. If you try to write down difficult concepts, you are only using the left side of the brain. But if you use mind mapping techniques which require non-verbal, visual and creative processes, you engage the right side as well.
And by using both sides of the brain, you can access more creative, non-linear thoughts which is perfect for capturing difficult ideas. Mind maps also allow you to see more than one thought at a glance and how these thoughts are interconnected, and therefore helps clarify your thinking.
So, mind mapping helps us express our reasoning by simplifying difficult projects, showing the possible consequences of a set of actions, and highlighting linkages between seemingly unconnected tasks or ideas.
It is a useful technique with a variety of uses and once you master this skill, you'll find yourself breezing through even the most complex issue with confidence and eagerness.
You can learn more about how to do a Mind Map by signing up for this
FREE e-training course on Mind Mapping. You'll also find lots of free advice and tools on a range of self-help topics from goal setting to people skills.
