Memory Boosters

Are you one of those people who can usually remember most of what you’ve seen or heard?  If so, this article isn’t for you!  However, if you’re like most of us, you could probably use a few tips to increase your recall of people, places and things you consider important.  And even though your memory may decrease with age, there are many ways to keep your mind sharp.

Things That Can Help You Remember

  • “Use it so you won’t lose it.”  The more you use information – for example dial the same phone number frequently – the more likely you are to remember it.  So, if it’s really important, keep using the information or refer to it often enough not to forget it.
  • Create a memory “gimmick” to help you remember important information.  For example, students use the word “homes” to remember the names of the Great Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie and Superior.
  • Don’t depend only on memory.  Keep and review notes, lists, address books, etc. to make sure you have access to key information.
  • Try to always leave things in the same spot – e.g., your house keys on the hall table.  Why create extra pressure for yourself by moving things around?
  • A good way to make sure you understand something as well as remember it, is to describe it to someone else.
  • Try organizing what you need to memorize in categories.
  • Identify and rely on your most effective learning style.  For example, some people are more likely to remember what they see, while others retain more of what they hear.

© Harris, Rothenberg International, LLC