023 - Using Mind Mapping as a Creative Tool
Topics Discussed and Key Points
•What is a mind map and why should you use it?
•How to create a mind map
•Personalizing your mind map
In this episode, Roben-Marie and Sandi talk about mind mapping. These are great for organizing a large project, and an optimal way to see the big picture in any creative endeavor.
In Roben-Marie’s words: “Mind maps are a creative and visual way to plan things—to really get things out of your head and onto paper. They’re an excellent way for you to get your thoughts out in visual form.”
A mind map is made up of what Sandi calls “clouds.” You start with your main topic in the center cloud (your hub or home base), which then branches off into other clouds that basically break your largest element down to its smallest details. As an example, for decorating a room, you can start with your bedroom as the main cloud, then create categories from that such as color scheme, furniture, soft goods, etc.
“Mind maps are a creative and visual way to plan things—to really get things out of your head and onto paper”
Roben-Marie loves the fact that mind mapping is, by its nature, a visual process. Particularly for creatives like herself, any concept is easier to grasp when it’s in picture form. It’s helped her plan out her workshops, where the “spokes” which branch off the main cloud encompass modules for the courses, which further break down into lessons, which once again break down into downloads, videos, etc. Seeing this big picture can help you see if something’s missing, in which case you simply create a new cloud for that element.
It’s best to mind map big. Sandi suggests doing it on a large piece of newsprint or on a “giant” whiteboard. (“Small whiteboards are useless,” she says.) In any case, go big, because you also don’t want to run out of space as your ideas grow.
Don’t be afraid to really personalize your mind maps. Think of it as a “storyboard” for the concept you’re trying to flesh out. Doodle on them. Add lists or diagrams. Paste pictures and photos that best illustrate the different clouds. Do whatever you feel helps you maximize your idea’s potential. You can even do a mind map on a cork board and use strings to connect your elements together—similar to how a crime board looks. There are also a variety of mind mapping apps that you can take advantage of, such as Popplet and Mind-Meister.
Ultimately, have fun with your mind mapping. There are no rules to it. It’s all about expressing yourself in a way only you can.
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