There is power in brainstorming.
This creative practice is formally defined as “the mulling over of ideas by one or more individuals in an attempt to devise or find a solution to a problem.”1
Some visual learners lead with words, scribbling notes in the margins or organizing thoughts into bulleted lists. Others may sketch concepts and connect topics with mind maps.
If you suffer from “too many ideas syndrome,” you can manage it with a brainstorming journal. There is no right or wrong way to start one, but before you do, consider these guidelines:
✹ Ask questions
✹ Set goals
✹ Don’t judge (or erase) early ideas
✹ Embrace gut feelings
✹ Aim for quantity over quality
✹ Use visuals (e.g., shapes, arrows, or stick figures) to translate complex concepts
How do skilled brainstormers fill their journals? I’ve gathered some inspiring thought leaders below.
Inspiration
Tools
Preparation is key before inspiration strikes. Decorate your creative corner, gather supplies, and establish a dedicated brainstorming journal. Find my list of necessities below:
✹ Notebook - There are several notebooks to choose from including blank, lined, graph, or dotted. If you crave the freedom to draw, I recommend dotted pages. They lend some structure without the constriction of lines. Even if you make a mistake, resist the temptation to erase.
✹ Favorite Pen - Pencils are my crutch, so I challenge myself to brainstorm in ink. It carries more weight and permanence. Find a pen that glides smoothly, so your ideas will flow with ease.
✹ Artistic Mediums - Pencils and pens aren’t the only utensils available. Experiment with charcoals, crayons, oil pastels, colored pencils, or watercolor palettes. Color makes your brainstorming sessions all the more vibrant!
✹ Bonus Materials - Don’t limit yourself! Add dimension with stickers, sticky notes, paper clips, strings, ribbons, patterned washi tape, and other textures. Some people collect memorabilia to later paste in their journals. Glue sticks and Mod Podge are a must for the scrapbook style!
After you brainstorm, it’s time to take action! The world wants to see your ideas come to life.
How do you generate new concepts? Let us know in the comments below.
