Let me give you an example of a mind map: Barack Obama's inauguration speech on 20th January 2009

For me the inauguration of Barack Obama was a milestone in many aspects. I just couldn't resist to make a mind map of this inauguration. The speech of Barack Obama is full with expectations and hope, it was just begging me to make a mind map of this beautiful speech.

I will give you a link down below in order for you to get to the presentation of this mind map. Before you go further, please click the link to the pdf for this mind map. Be sure to first print it out. Beware, I made this mind map on an A3 sized piece of paper (European size 42 * 29,.7 cm). It should be ok to print it on two normal sized papers and glue these together.

Here's the link for the inauguration mind map of Barack Obama (pdf)

When ready, take a little time to see what this mind map is all about. I KNOW FOR SURE that at first this mind map will be overwhelming. I want you to realize that I have to 'compete' with your way of thinking you're using for almost decades now. So please, be patient and give it an opportunity.

Ok, look at the mind map. Don't try to understand it, only if it is fun for you to do so.

In order to get the most out of a mind map, be sure to use as much as possible from the smashin' scope ingredients. That's the reason so many images are weird. I am using the ingredients of the smashin' scope.

My guess is that you really want to give it a try. In order to realize this goal, I want you to be open, forget your critical side for just 30 minutes (that's all I am asking!) and go with the flow. Let me explain to you the power of a mind map. As an example for this mind map we are going to listen to Barack Obama. But at the same time I am showing you parts of the mind map.

I won't say a word while Barack Obama is talking!. In fact I only show you what the meaning of the mind map is.

I just want you to relax and sit back with your mind map in your lap. Look at this screen as I show you where we are in the mind map, while Barack Obama is speeching!.

There are 25 chapters. When you finished a chapter, close the window of the popup. Right after that, look at your mind map and try to repeat what you just heard and see where you can find it in the mind map.

Now and this is important!. At that moment try to understand what the mind map is telling you. Repeat it aloud or in your head. Hear Obama say the words. Can you hear him articulate particular words? What are your personal images that arise in front of your mind's eye? Hook them up on this story (Yeah, we are talking about the smashin' scope again).

Whenever you feel that you can not repeat or remember for 100%, you go back to the last clicked chapter, listen and watch it again. The moment you discover what you missed and is not in your mind map; grab a pen and add it at the appropriate place in your mind map.

Than go to the next chapter.

Do this once!.

Here is the link to the  inauguration of Barack Obama mind map example.