Contributed by Connie Zabala, founder of conniezabala.com

Let’s admit it.

When we attend a seminar, or listen to a lecture, or learn a new course, or just plainly acquire new knowledge, we take notes. There are many ways on how people do it.

Recently, people rely on their mobile phones. They use notes, maybe some special reminders or even just the text or SMS app (for those who don’t have other apps) and enter that “quotable” quotes they think are worth remembering.

Of course, don’t forget the old way of taking down notes — the old school pen and paper or better yet, pen and notebook. We don’t want to misplace those notes, are we? 😉

As for me, I use mind maps. And I must admit, I’ve been addicted to it. Every time I want to learn something, I make sure a mind map app is open. Without it, I will not start. If I don’t have my computer with me, I make sure that my phone has it. Any mind map will do for me as long as I get to take notes of important things.

What is a mind map by the way?

According to Wikipedia, a mind map is a diagram used to visually organize information. It is hierarchical and shows relationships among pieces of the whole.

What to see an example of a mind map? I’ll give you one right now.

Here’s a mind map that I would love to share with you. It’s called “How to Increase Your Productivity?”. Go to the lower right-hand part of the image (the one with the “eye” icon), and scroll left to right to zoom in.

It’s not as complicated as it looks. It’s easy and so much fun to use! I’ve been doing it for years now.

You know what I realized later on? I’m glad that I’m doing it regularly.

Why?

Because it helped me remember things effectively. And most importantly, it’s easier to review and re-visit the notes that I took during those learning moments. Every time I review my notes through mind maps, I always have that “aha!” feeling or that “Yes, that’s correct!” answer to my mind.

And the bonus part, it doesn’t take me hours to find my notes. Of course, you have to make sure that you name your file right, okay? ;P

If you want an image copy of this mind map, let me know so that I can send it to you.

If you want to learn more about mind mapping, join our online conference this October. I’ll be talking about “How to Organize Ideas and Remember Effectively Using a Mind Mapping Tool.” You will understand why mind mapping can make your learning time easier and more effective. Aside from that, you’ll also learn many other things to help with your virtual assistant journey.

See you there!

Connie Zabala is a VA for more than 5 years. Inspired by people around her, she just created an online course for aspiring VAs to show them how it’s done. Connie Zabala is a VA for more than 5 years. Inspired by people around her, she just created an online course for aspiring VAs to show them how it’s done. Check out her website here.