A mind map is a diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other items linked to and arranged radially around a central key word or idea. Mind maps (or similar concepts) have been used for centuries. The claim to the origin of the current concept of a mind map has been made by a British popular psychology author Tony Buzan. He claimed the idea was inspired by Alfred Korzybski’s general semantics as popularized in science fiction novels, such as those of Robert A. Heinlein and A. E. van Vogt.
My thoughts are turning towards 2008. On a personal level I want to continue my momentum towards better health: improving my diet, increasing the level of my physical exercise and developing a more positive lifestyle. On a professional level I want to capitalize on those efforts which have resulted in viable end products. These include:
- continuing to explore the potential of self publishing though Blurb
- maximizing the potential of my Ebay store and my Prostore site
- and developing the discipline to follow through on three to four photographic projects
My daily schedule is managed through Microsoft Outlook. I would be lost without Outlook's gentle, but persistent "reminders", it's ability to capture and manage all of my email accounts and it's "sticky notes" that never get lost. I've come to realize that paper (from scribbled notes to final 8x10 prints) eventually becomes a coaster for my coffee cup, falls to the floor, gets trampled and eventually swept out the door.
My Garmin Forerunner 305 has helped me provide order in my exercise routines. When I connect it to my computer it uploads the elapsed time, cadence and heart rate of each indoor or outdoor ride on my bike. All this information is then graphed over time. Stepping on the scale tells me if I need to step up my efforts.
I am now searching for a Forerunner 305 equivalent to organize my professional efforts. I have been following the buzz about mind mapping.This morning I downloaded a trial version of Buzan's iMindMap software. I will also be exploring the capabilities of Microsoft's OneNote software. Whichever product I use must effortlessly -and automatically- communicate and update my Outlook Schedule and Task Manager.
I have high hopes for Microsoft OneNote. Someone described their experience: Mindmapping is a great way to see connections and before realizing it, the page on OneNote was filled with words, boxes, and colors. Ideas were unlocked from my tired mind and I could see my time had been productive. I completed the task with ease and actually had a good time scribbling. Even the printout of the mind map was impressive. Everything was date and time stamped. More impressive was that the page appeared to have been done on a piece of paper. It was beyond cool.
I will be in New York City next weekend. In the city I always like to have the outline of a "project" floating around in my head. I admit to being a kid in a candy shop. During 2008 I would like to develop the theme of Comics, Legends and Lore. I have fleshed out an idea with broad brush strokes. I envision exploring the history of "clowns" in art, the media and society. Somehow I would relate this to the costumed super hero in comic books. Again, broad strokes. I need to flesh this out - I need a Mind Map! I have a week to organize my New York shooting agenda. Some relationships I would like to explore:
- Comic Books: Color and Black & White
- Clowns and Mimes
- Circus and Street Performers
Waldo County, situated in mid-coast Maine along scenic Penobscot Bay, has genuine New England character evidenced by working port towns and quaint rural villages. Visitors are awed by the area's unspoiled beauty. From striking coastal views to sweeping mountain vistas, dramatic natural settings abound. In addition great care has been taken to preserve and refurbish numerous historic landmarks, homes and buildings. Consequently, the Maine of yesteryear is still found here.
website: Time-less-image
web blog: Comics Legends and Lore
web store: Time-Less-Image Ebay Store
Technorati Tags: clowns, OneNote, MindMaps
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