The Visionary’s ToolBox
I love ideas. In fact, they come to visit, often. I’ve had one too many waft off into Neverland, so I created my Visionary Toolbox. Here are my favorite tools for mapping out ideas!
A Pad & Pen
I keep a journal with me at all times. Whenever inspiration strikes I write it down. There are some other tech-savvy tools that I use, but for the good old fashioned brainstorming, there’s something magical about writing it all down.
The iPhone
Every other tool that I use can be integrated into this phenom of a tool. It’s by FAR the best productivity tool I own; a personal assistant in my hand. I can make calls, record an MP3 for a podcast, create video, update to my Posterous sites, websites, check e-mail, take payments, everything. If I ever got stranded on an Island, I’d want a solar charger and this phone (I could have food flown in, then!).
Mind Mapping Tool
MindMapping is my favorite way to map out an idea and watch it take shape and grow or for planning any project. It’s a great way to organize thoughts, and brainstorm. My favorite tool, by far is MindMeister (Link). They also have an iPhone App. You can export your mindmaps as a PDF, image, outline (MS Word), mindmeister file or mind manager file. You can collaborate on maps with teams, add notes, links, Wikipedia information and more!
A Sacred Space
Create or make a space just for creating. Fill it with things that inspire. I have a special chair that I go to when I need to think and plan. I light a candle, put on my favorite meditation music or just open the windows and listen to nature to get ready to plan and dream.
The Most Important Question
When I’m ready to do my planning sessions, I ask: “What can I do (this week, month, year) to make the most impact? But my favorite question when I want to create something magical is “How can I create something phenomenal that will help others”? I ask and listen for the guidance, use these tools and start flying!
Want more from Staci? Sign up for the FREE Newsletter or Have Staci speak at your next event!
"Love, Staci™" is a trademark of Staci J. Shelton
I have my Moleskine next to my bed, as many of my creative concepts and ideas comes to me at night. the iPhone is also an important tool i use to record ideas via voice – a quick and easy way to record ideas on the go. It’s all about making a difference – change things for the better wether you work with coaching, or other forms of communication. thanks for sharing. =)
I also have books full of ideas, but a year or so ago I started to write down ideas on smaller pieces of paper. I found some beautiful boxes, one black for blank pieces, and a golden box for written down ideas.
You can see a picture of them here http://pappmaskin.no/2008/04/discarded-ideas-02042008/
On one side I write down just a word or a sentence, a short description, and on the other side more details if I need to.
Books are great and sturdy, but a few times a year I go through my box of ideas and muse a little, maybe order them in groups, and perhaps consolidating a little if I have written down something that might fit together.
Staci, once again you have confirmed Damien Basile’s testimony to you ‘She gets it AND helps others to get it too.’ I love your blend of using sophisticated high tech resourcefulness with the more evocative examples of how to direct personal energy to bring out the magic within, in order to share it.
Alison! Thank you for your kind words! Simplicity speaks volumes! I love bringing information people can use in a clear, concise practical way!
I love using the voice memos features on the iphone for those important ideas when I’m traveling or otherwise unable to write! It is all about making a difference. To VISION!
I love this idea!!! What a great way to review and get inspired! Thanks for that brilliant idea. Loved your post!!
I love this post!
Gets right to the point.
I carry around a handy-sized Plain Moleskine and a Pilot G-2 05 pen to do my damage. I also write notes and record voice memos in my iPhone when I am not able to put the pen to the paper.
Like you said, I’ve also “had one too many [ideas] waft off into Neverland”, so I’ve learned the value of having a creative visionary toolbox.
You’re amazing Staci!
Absolutely great advice. I am off to create my creative space now. and create a toolbox. Staci this website is hhhhooootttttt – Love it.
richard
ChurchBrand Architect
Great post! As a creative person, I too have lost many ideas to space. The best places to store creative ideas, paper combined with technology. I learned the hard way when my computer crashed, never put your eggs in one basket. I always have a pen on hand to write down ideas on whatever I can get my hands on.
Think || Converse || Create
Great Post Staci!
I especially like the part where you ask your favorite question when you want to create something magical: “How can I create something phenomenal that will help others”?
Asking “how” opens the door for the inspiration and guidance to come in and there is no loftier way to operate then through giving.
Here is my favorite “How” question:
“How can I make $xxx / month while helping others and enjoying what I do”.
Anyway, I wrote yours down and have it in front of me, I’ll be using it too.
Thanks for sharing!
Smiles…
Thank You for all your comments!!!
I love asking questions as a tool for discovery and creation! And thanks for sharing tips and tools that will help us create even more!
This is great Staci! You always give us tools to grow!!
Thank you, Dear!!! I know you have these in your toolbox and more with all of those amazing poems you give birth to! To Vision…