Three things creative people need

Current Mood: Happy

Ever since I was a little girl, I was always overflowing with ideas. I was always creating crazy things like tree swings affectionately called the “Drop of Doom” or pulley systems across the pool in the backyard. The advantage I had back then though was time. Nowadays, I don’t have time to immediately implement my ideas. I’m so consumed in work or family life that I barely have time to even remember half the things that pop into my brain. However, there’s a solution for creative souls such as myself.

Notebook:
I’m obsessed with my little black notebook. I have two in fact. One is in my purse and one is my work purse. Whenever an idea strikes me, I write it down immediately. The notebook doesn’t just contain notes though, it contains storyboards, pictures and diagrams. Basically anything that comes to mind goes in that notebook. Sure, a lot of the things I write down never actually come to fruition, but it’s nice to look back at something from a while ago and say “Hey, I didn’t have time for that then, but I have time for it now!

Voice Recorder:
Sometimes jotting down an idea just isn’t possible because we’ve dislocated that pencil or we’re driving 75 mph on Interstate 5. No fears, that’s what voice recorders are for. Lucky for me, my voice recorder is right in my phone. I flip it on with just a touch and then I let the thoughts flow from my head. Don’t have a voice recorder on your phone? Check out Best Buy. They’ve got a nice selection!

MindMapping:
Now that you have your ideas, how do you flush them out? MindMapping. If you haven’t heard of MindMapping before, you’re in for a treat. MindMapping is a way to structure your thoughts using diagrams. Essentially you start with one idea in the middle and then branch out with sub ideas and more ideas off of that. Pretty soon you’ll see a theme and structure coming out of your MindMap. The non-linear approach to this type of brainstorming really helps maximize your brainstorming session’s potential. Sound difficult? It’s not. Actually, there are numerous MindMapping programs out there. Check them out at one of my fave sites, Lifehacker.