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2 Simple ways to improve your thinking

By Jim Connolly | February 2, 2010

When you are looking for new ideas or you need to solve a problem, do you think on paper?  This post will show you 2 very simple, easy to use tools, which can help you become massively more creative and a superstar problem solver.

I was working at my desk the other day, when a friend pointed out that he thought it was odd, that I was writing notes out using pen and paper, with all that hi-tech equipment around me.  I explained to him that I find it far more effective to create, using pen and paper, than using a computer.  It’s as if the ideas flow more easily for me, using a more natural interface.

Here are the 2 main tools I use for thinking on paper.

1. Spider diagrams

The first tool I use for thinking on paper, is a simple spider diagram, like the one below, from The University of Sheffield.  I use this as a way to generate ideas.  I start off with a key word in the middle of the page.  This key word or short phrase is something that’s linked to a project I am working on.  Once the key word is written down, I spider off it, with new ideas.

As you can see below, some of these ideas lead to others, which I keep in order using a line to link them.  This shows me instantly, how my thought process is working.  Because these ideas are all on paper in front of me, I don’t need to remember them and can use my mind 100% to create.  I have tried using software programs that offer the same functionality, but find it far less effective than this simple approach.

2. Hand written lists

Another way I think on paper, is to use hand written lists, as a way to solve problems.

I start off by writing the problem down at the top of the page, as if it were a question.  So, instead of writing down:

“Bob needs to quit smoking and I would like to help him.”

I would write this down:

“How can I help Bob quit smoking in a way that he will find enjoyable?”

By the way, the better the question you start off with, the better your answers will be – so spend as much time as necessary getting the question right!

Next, I simply write down as many possible answers as I can.  I just let my mind flow and feel free to write down anything – without restriction.  I always shoot for at least 15 answers, because I find that pushes me to keep producing answers and ideas.  It’s amazing how many answers I have been able to find using this method; especially when faced with really tricky issues and challenges.

I know that there are many structured tools, to help us become more creative and better problem solvers.  However, the purpose of this brief post, was simply to share 2 extremely productive, simple techniques that anyone can master in 5 minutes.  I would really like to know what tools you use to help you come up with ideas and answers.  Please share them with your fellow readers and myself.

Let’s work together and grow your business. To find out more click here!

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Hi! I'm Jim Connolly and I help small business owners to increase sales, boost their profits and build amazing businesses. Read more here.

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