THE MAGIC OF MIND MAPPING

Sometimes when you've got a lot going on, it can be hard to get organized and develop plans. For me, it can be overwhelming and lead to procrastination. One great tool to use in these scenarios is a mind map. 

A mind map is essentially a way to get all your ideas out on paper without feeling the need to do so in a more rigid and structured way. For those us of that are highly analytical, this can be a game changer! Mind mapping allows you to just get everything in your brain out on paper, then use that to develop your plan of action. 

So how do you mind map? Start by putting down your central idea in the middle of a sheet of paper. Then, start creating branches off of this central idea with everything related to that concept that you can think of. Don't overthink or try to organize it- just write down everything that comes to mind. For example, on an event planning mind map I might have "annual fundraiser" as my central idea, then branch off with things like food, venue, invitations, and music. Then off of each of these ideas, branch off any additional details (under food I might put entree, appetizers, drinks, open bar, etc). 

​I highly recommend googling mind maps and looking at some examples- there are many great ones out there! For me, doing my mind map on paper is the best way to get my ideas out, but there's also many great software out there as well for those of us who aren't paper people. 

Happy mapping!