Despite what everyone says, your memory doesn't naturally get worse with age - you just stopped using it in your 30s! (Actually, you probably stopped using it in your 20s but I was giving you the benefit of the doubt).
Seriously, people just don't even try to use their memories.
For example, when you're reading, do you use a highlighter? Or underline the stuff you need to remember? If you do, you are totally NOT even trying to use your memory.
How about names? Are you one of those who says, "I remember faces but I can never remember names.
" You know, that statement is so weird because faces are A LOT harder to remember than names.
Think about it, faces are very similar - names can be vastly different.
So you've actually chosen the hard job - and your memory works OK there.
But you can't remember the easy thing - their name.
Here's why I make these statements.
We put something into memory by using a system called "Space-Repetition.
" You learn something, give it a space of time, (with names, 3 to 5 minutes) then repeat it.
So here's the easy way to remember names: meet someone.
LISTEN when they say their name.
Don't think about anything else.
Don't think "Oh, I never remember names.
" Just totally focus on that person and HEAR his or her name.
Chat with him or her for a while if that the situation or move on and introduce yourself to the next person, if that's the situation.
Then, 3 to 5 minutes later, glance at the person, or think about him or her, and say his/her name.
That's it.
You've started putting it into long term memory.
Do that again, 3 to 5 minutes later.
Think of the person or glance at him/her and repeat, "Oh yeah, that's Sylvia.
" That's all it takes.
You've got it.
You'll remember names.
When I say that highlighters and underlining are NOT helping your memory it's because when we are reading, "Comprehension occurs during reading.
Memory or Retention is what is left after the reading is done!" Memory comes from putting the book or report aside, and THEN making your notes.
When we use a highlighter or underline we are marking the text WHILE WE ARE READING.
That's simply marking it in bright colors so it's easy to look up again! Throw away your highlighters.
Stop underlining the text.
From now on, AFTER YOU ARE DONE READING, close the book or report and make your notes.
NOW you are trying to use your memory.
And at first it will be difficult and you won't remember much.
In my program "Read To Your Potential for Adults" I have a system and exercises that start working your memory in fun, brief stints.
It's amazing how quickly you start remembering a lot.
So give it a shot.
Stop saying that "Oh I'm getting older so my memory just isn't any good!" Baloney! You just haven't been trying.
How old are you? Really, in 5 years, do you want your memory to be THAT MUCH WORSE? How about starting now to try to use it properly.
I guarantee that if you do, in 5 years you'll be amazed (and so will ALL of your FRIENDS!) at how great your memory is - and you'll be 5 years older!