Mind Map: Learning from Experiences

Uses: To identifying what is and isn't working for you, and what alternatives you might implement, based on a specific experience.

Background:  I'm always on the lookout for different ways to "see" the same thing. This was inspired by a conversation with a colleague. I'm about to go take it for a spin myself!

How to: Click the link below to open up the map. Print the map off and complete each of the sections. This map  makes the most sense if you complete it going clockwise. No instructions, just follow the arrows!

More comments: If you want to work through this map with another human being (me), drop me an email or phone call!

Feature Article: Built-in Change

I'll admit it, I'm obsessed with multi-functioning furniture. I never knew I had this "preference" until recently. ;-)

I have chairs in my office that fit you regardless of your physical dimensions. They are adjustable, and serve as chairs and chaise lounges, and are stylish, or so people tell me.

I have panels on wheels that serve three functions. They are moveable privacy screens, they are a place to write (dry erase on one side) and they are pieces of art.

My stools can be used as both chairs and as side tables. And my lockers serve as storage and as a symbol to "check your preconceived ideas" at the door.

My space evolves from an inspiration academy to a creativity gym, to a knowledge transfer station in a matter of minutes!

Although, I don't spend my days and evenings moving around furniture, knowing that I have the ability to accommodate both myself and my clients is a powerful feeling.

I didn't always have the ability or desire to change my environment so fluidly.

Take for example, my days of working in a cubicle, in an office, and in my home.

Oddly enough, my strongest memory of cubicle days was a noisy neighbor. He would literally make prank phone calls several hours a day. In between laughing to tears (he was very funny), I had to work.

While in one of my offices, my major distraction was my view. One 10th floor office window overlooked a busy interstate in Atlanta. In between providing traffic updates, I had to work.

And working from home, well that is a distraction by itself. In between living my life, I had to work.

Now, back in my cubicle days, I couldn't change the people around me. I didn't have the time, energy, resources, or smarts to do that.

In my office days, I didn't want to change my view. I enjoyed watching the traffic (twisted, I know) and didn't mind the distraction.

And in my work from home days, I decide NOT to change my environment all that much. Sure, I had a few evolutions of my office space and setup, but my space was far from ideal for me.

I'm not sure what changed for me, but with a brand new blank empty space comes NEW possibility.

Before I moved into my new office, I envisioned what would happen in that space, but not how it would look. I envisioned inspiring conversations, comfort, creativity, and yep, computer software training.

To me, the desire to change is inspiring.  And the ability to change inspires me just as much.

The ability to be creative requires change.

And learning is, after all, one definition of change.

That said, seems to me that one key to me loving my life and my business is the ability to change. At the same time, I truly enjoy helping others do the same.

Thus, my multifunctional furniture is a symbol of built in change. It represents my ability to change as much as I would like, while keeping the best parts in place!

I'm guessing that this is what most people want. What about you?

I am curious about your thoughts on all this. Drop me an email, or a phone call. I would enjoy hearing from you!




p.s. Email me...

-- Tina Turner, Singer

The content of  Half-Baked may be forwarded in full without special permission provided it is used for nonprofit purposes and full attribution and copyright notice are given. Our mailing address is: BizSmart LLC
659 Auburn Ave, NE, Suite G-21, Atlanta, GA  30312 For other purposes, contact jans@bizsmart.net.