Review: √ I Made my "Memory Map!"
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 12, 2014
Although the title of this book mentions "Fear," I think of this little gem as more of a CREATIVITY BOOSTER. This is an outstanding book on encouraging creativity, and warrants a detailed review.▲ I really like the notion of expanding your "neural network" of your brain--developing new ways, new perspectives, and trying to stop the old, linear way of thinking.  I think this will be very tough for us analytical types, who pride ourselves on our logic.  (We engineers are a pretty dull lot, and it's tough to shake us up.)  By making a "Memory Map," we encourage new ways of looking at things--without being boxed-in, without always thinking the same old way, going down the same old path.  The Memory Map is like brainstorming. Leslie gives an example of how you might build your own memory map.▲ The following is absolutely true--I am not making this up!  Today, I started on my "Memory Map" whilst in the shower!  I had just finished my workout at 24-hour fitness; earlier, I had been reading this book on my 'Droid, while on the "cycle." I was pondering some of the ideas, and and was relaxing under the nice hot water--then I thought--"What a perfect time make a memory map!"  I did not have paper and a marker, but I just visualized my memory map.  Thinking about my highest dreams in life, I thought of all the interconnecting ideas.  Useful exercise!  (Now, if the gym could just put water-proof markers in the shower, we'll be all set!)Here are some of the suggestions that stood-out to me:☺ "You have the ultimate say when it comes to your happiness."☺ "Change is easy if you have a firm grasp on what your passions are Identify those things that drive you."☺ "If you can expand your mind and explore the improbable or the impossible - you can then open your mind up to a multitude of Solutions."☺ "Don't every stop believing the power of your dreams - because the dreams of today are your reality of tomorrow."▲ The theme of Creativity & Ignoring Boundaries (and fear) is a recurring theme throughout the book. This leads to genuine innovation, and accomplishments far beyond what seemed "reasonable" or "probable."  I just finished reading a moving biography of the great singer, Jerome Hines.  He was kicked out of his Jr. High Glee Club because he seemed to be such a terrible singer.  Well, he ending up setting the all-time record for 40 Years performing as a star opera singer in New York.  To get past that first "failure," he had to envision something far different than the negative assessment of his early ability.▲ Similarly, the author of this fine book, Leslie D. Riopel, had to get past the seemingly insurmountable boundaries she faced after losing her job. The author realized that she was not doing what her life passion was, and she started moving in that direction.  Yea--what a great choice!▲ Seriously, this is a very fine book, which is obviously the result of countless hours of thinking, analysis, and probably some "failures" too. This review does scant justice to the quality of the work, and the profound nature of the recommendations. "Change Anything" is filled with creative suggestions to get us out of our "linear thinking."  It's a rut that I hope to climb out of!  I am grateful to the author for realizing what her passion was, and going full speed ahead!√ Highly recommend!