If there is a reliable creative tool it is mindmapping

Creativity is an indispensable aspect of our life. Without creativity there could not have been any progress in this world. The evolution of man from being a cave man to the present highly sophisticated creature that he is, was made possible because of his creative thinking. Think of all the creativity that gave rise to inventions. From using stone to putting space shuttle on the moon, man has evolved a great way primarily because of the creative powers that he is endowed with.

Although all of us are inherently creative, some are born creative genius. Creativity is known to be a ‘Right’ brained activity. The right brain qualities typically include imagination, risk taking, creativity, artistic abilities, highly philosophical orientation, etc. Creative people display certain common traits such as risk taking, rebellion, absent-mindedness, humor, focused, preoccupied, determined, and so on.

Creativity has no limits. However, we hardly explore the full potential of our creativity. We prefer to think and work along familiar patterns because any out of the box thinking calls for added effort, concentration and focus. But there are ‘programmed thinking’ methods such as Attribute Listing, Morphological Analysis, Reframing Matrix and other methods that can tap into our creative skills. They force you to look for solutions outside the conformed pattern and help explore new avenues of thinking.

Another well-known method is using ‘lateral thinking’ methods such as Brainstorming, Random Input and Provocation. It involves breaking free from the familiar thinking patterns and seeking new ways of perceiving things. The basic requirement in lateral thinking is the need to suspend judgment and criticism so ideas and concepts are given a free flow. Using all these methods can help in improving your creative skills.

Another simple and an effective technique that is steadily gaining momentum is the use of Mindmapping method. Mindmapping is a simple and highly efficient device for use in a great range of cognitive skills. For learning, note taking, memory, listing, recall, review, brainstorming, attribute listing, morphological analysis, reframing matrix, and in a range of other activities, Mind Maps serve as an immensely useful tool.

As the essence of Mind Mapping is built to stimulate thinking, association and imagination, it is a great tool for stoking creativity. It taps into the unconscious mind using the language of symbols, pictures, non- linear text, etc, and brings them to the surface.

Mindmapping lends itself greatly to all cognitive activities and is an ideal medium for enhancing your creative abilities. You can apply the mindmap technique under various situations and hence is of great practical value. It is only by using mindmapping that the full impact of the power of the technique will come through.

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