I have recently been using Mind Mapping with executive coaching clients through various stages of coaching and have observed a very positive impact. My experience with mind mapping validates it as an effective coaching tool by deeply engaging clients and increasing their creativity, focus and ability to identify complex interrelationships. I have found that Mind Mapping has added value in helping coaching clients generate a greater number of alternatives and identify high leverage action plans all while being constantly aware of the “big picture”.
I have long been intrigued with the Radiant Thinking and Mind Mapping techniques originated by Tony Buzan. Mind Mapping has many common uses including brainstorming, problem solving, communication planning, note taking, project planning, strategy development, “To do” lists and so on. I am finding Mind Mapping to be a versatile and powerful coaching tool and have successfully used it in working with clients to identify coaching outcomes, construct change scenarios, work with resistance and develop action plans.
“The greatest power of Mind Mapping is that it trains your brain to see the whole picture and the details…to integrate logic and imagination.
-Michael Gelb
I have long been intrigued with the Radiant Thinking and Mind Mapping techniques originated by Tony Buzan. Mind Mapping has many common uses including brainstorming, problem solving, communication planning, note taking, project planning, strategy development, “To do” lists and so on. I am finding Mind Mapping to be a versatile and powerful coaching tool and have successfully used it in working with clients to identify coaching outcomes, construct change scenarios, work with resistance and develop action plans.
“The greatest power of Mind Mapping is that it trains your brain to see the whole picture and the details…to integrate logic and imagination.
-Michael Gelb
Mind Mapping Fundamentals
Anyone can immediately begin Mind Mapping by applying the 10 foundation structures suggested by Buzan:
1. Start in the center of a page turned landscape style with an image of the topic, using at least 3 colors.
2. Use images, symbols, codes and dimensions throughout your Mind Map.
3. Select key words and print using upper or lower case letters.
4. Each word/image must be alone and sitting on its own line.
5. The lines must be connected, starting from the central image. The central lines are thicker, organic and flowing, becoming thinner as they radiate out from the center.
6. Make the lines the same length as the word/image.
7. Use colors – your own code – throughout the Mind Map.
8. Develop your own personal style of Mind Mapping.
9. Use emphasis and show associations in your Mind Map.
10. Keep the Mind Map clear by using Radiant hierarchy, numerical order or outlines to embrace your branches.
(See: BUZAN, T. The Mind Map Book. Chapter "Mind Mapping Guidelines").
Pros and Cons of Coaching and Mind Mapping
Since experimenting with Mind Mapping in coaching, I believe that the conversations have yielded more creative and sophisticated options. By working with a client on a white board or piece of paper and Mind Mapping a coaching topic under consideration, the process enables clients to focus better and even more importantly, make associations that a typical coaching conversation might not reveal.
In a recent coaching conversation regarding career development and career choice options, a client created a “master” Mind Map which then branched into 3 sub-maps. It produced a set of comprehensive scenario options and potential activities. Ultimately, she was able to define a series of action steps that were deliberately selected and represented a very efficient and effective path forward for her.
Another client who participated in a 360 degree feedback program found Mind Mapping to be an effective way to sort through the complexity of quantitative and qualitative feedback. He created a series of Mind Maps which synthesized and incorporated:
1. The 360 numerical and written feedback themes from the various provider perspectives
“Importance to the job” rankings he and his boss agreed upon
2. His annual performance objectives
3. The enterprise growth strategy
4. The strategy for his business unit and function
This comprehensive approach yielded a plan that was much richer than any of the single data sources could have provided. Mind Mapping provided a vehicle to identify key trends, associations, and opportunities for leverage. The result of this process was a direct set of activities that enabled him to significantly improve his overall effectiveness relative to both his short-term goals and longer-term aspirations.
Effective coaches should consider that Mind Mapping is not a good choice for every client. Buzan once said “The average business executive has spent between 1,000 and 10,000 hours formally learning economics, history, languages, literature, mathematics and political science. The same executive has spent less than ten hours learning about creative thinking.” Although Mind Mapping can be an effective skill in the process of creative thinking, some clients have expressed discomfort or disinterest in its use. I encourage coaches to gauge their clients’ receptivity to this process. In some cases, it can be beneficial to “turn up the heat” and challenge the client to try a new method of thinking. A lot of people are using Mind Mapping as evidenced by the more than one-half million hits registered through a recent internet search.
Since experimenting with Mind Mapping in coaching, I believe that the conversations have yielded more creative and sophisticated options. By working with a client on a white board or piece of paper and Mind Mapping a coaching topic under consideration, the process enables clients to focus better and even more importantly, make associations that a typical coaching conversation might not reveal.
In a recent coaching conversation regarding career development and career choice options, a client created a “master” Mind Map which then branched into 3 sub-maps. It produced a set of comprehensive scenario options and potential activities. Ultimately, she was able to define a series of action steps that were deliberately selected and represented a very efficient and effective path forward for her.
Another client who participated in a 360 degree feedback program found Mind Mapping to be an effective way to sort through the complexity of quantitative and qualitative feedback. He created a series of Mind Maps which synthesized and incorporated:
1. The 360 numerical and written feedback themes from the various provider perspectives
“Importance to the job” rankings he and his boss agreed upon
2. His annual performance objectives
3. The enterprise growth strategy
4. The strategy for his business unit and function
This comprehensive approach yielded a plan that was much richer than any of the single data sources could have provided. Mind Mapping provided a vehicle to identify key trends, associations, and opportunities for leverage. The result of this process was a direct set of activities that enabled him to significantly improve his overall effectiveness relative to both his short-term goals and longer-term aspirations.
Effective coaches should consider that Mind Mapping is not a good choice for every client. Buzan once said “The average business executive has spent between 1,000 and 10,000 hours formally learning economics, history, languages, literature, mathematics and political science. The same executive has spent less than ten hours learning about creative thinking.” Although Mind Mapping can be an effective skill in the process of creative thinking, some clients have expressed discomfort or disinterest in its use. I encourage coaches to gauge their clients’ receptivity to this process. In some cases, it can be beneficial to “turn up the heat” and challenge the client to try a new method of thinking. A lot of people are using Mind Mapping as evidenced by the more than one-half million hits registered through a recent internet search.
Mind Mapping Software
Many Mind Map software programs have become available over the past few years. Computer Mind Maps enable the storage of vast amounts of data in Mind Map form, to cross reference the material, to shift branches of maps around easily, and to rearrange entire mind maps as they are further defined and developed. I have tried a few of the free Mind Mapping software applications through internet websites and have not found it as helpful. I have a very strong preference for holding the pens, placing pen to paper and scattering the pages out or writing on a large white board. I just plain like the feel of physical and active connection to the creative process. As I reflect on using Mind Mapping in a coaching context, I thrive in the opportunity to sit side by side with a client as they develop their ideas, see new associations and get excited about the unfolding possibilities. Despite my personal preference, I am sure many people find great benefit in using computer Mind Maps in conjunction with hand written maps.
Many Mind Map software programs have become available over the past few years. Computer Mind Maps enable the storage of vast amounts of data in Mind Map form, to cross reference the material, to shift branches of maps around easily, and to rearrange entire mind maps as they are further defined and developed. I have tried a few of the free Mind Mapping software applications through internet websites and have not found it as helpful. I have a very strong preference for holding the pens, placing pen to paper and scattering the pages out or writing on a large white board. I just plain like the feel of physical and active connection to the creative process. As I reflect on using Mind Mapping in a coaching context, I thrive in the opportunity to sit side by side with a client as they develop their ideas, see new associations and get excited about the unfolding possibilities. Despite my personal preference, I am sure many people find great benefit in using computer Mind Maps in conjunction with hand written maps.
Give it a Try!
Mind Mapping is a tool that works and works well in coaching. I think that actually using a Mind Map is the only way to experience how they can help people ideate, create and act. If you haven’t made one recently, I encourage you to try it. Pick a central topic, use a hub and spoke format to connect the related ideas. The simple act of writing it down, along with the visual display will trigger a string of associations and benefits that can only be appreciated by experience. If you enjoy it, share the 10 foundational structures with clients and watch the magic unfold!
Recommended Resources
Buzan, T, How to Mind Map, HarperCollins Publishers, London, 2002.
Buzan, The Mind Map Book, Penguin Books, NY, 1996.
Gelb, Michael, Mind Mapping – How to liberate your natural genius, Nightingale-Conanat, NY, 1995.
Konieczka, R & Armstrong, P, The 59 second Mind Map, Hara Publishing: Seattle, WA, 1995
Wycoff, J, MindMapping, Your personal guide to Exploring Creativity and Problem-Solving, Penguin Putnam, NY, 1991.
Mind Mapping is a tool that works and works well in coaching. I think that actually using a Mind Map is the only way to experience how they can help people ideate, create and act. If you haven’t made one recently, I encourage you to try it. Pick a central topic, use a hub and spoke format to connect the related ideas. The simple act of writing it down, along with the visual display will trigger a string of associations and benefits that can only be appreciated by experience. If you enjoy it, share the 10 foundational structures with clients and watch the magic unfold!
Recommended Resources
Buzan, T, How to Mind Map, HarperCollins Publishers, London, 2002.
Buzan, The Mind Map Book, Penguin Books, NY, 1996.
Gelb, Michael, Mind Mapping – How to liberate your natural genius, Nightingale-Conanat, NY, 1995.
Konieczka, R & Armstrong, P, The 59 second Mind Map, Hara Publishing: Seattle, WA, 1995
Wycoff, J, MindMapping, Your personal guide to Exploring Creativity and Problem-Solving, Penguin Putnam, NY, 1991.
Posts
