Losing things and forgetting events are frustrating if it happens regularly. We are surrounded by stuff that we need to remember. Where are the keys? What time am I supposed to pick up John Boy? I am at the store and I forgot my list...what did I need?
There are some sure-fire tools and methods to make remembering easier. Each requires that you set up the tools or apply the method, but that is really something that one can easily do. A little work now goes a long way to easing stress down the road.
1. Designate a Spot for Certain Items.
If you need to remember your glasses or your keys, set up a spot to put them each and every time. On your way out you can easily grab them and you're out the door in no time. Use this spot to also put things to take with you, such as dry cleaning, a book to return, a letter to mail, or your grocery list.
2. Make Lists
Put things you need to do on lists. Create an ERRAND list, a CALL list, an OFFICE list, or a HOME list. Put anything on these lists that you can do. Taking the time to create a list of what you can do in certain locations will save you tremendous time. When on the road visit all the places on your Errand list, be it the dry cleaner, the office supply store, or the pet store. When you have some phone time, call all the people on your CALL list.
Once your to-dos are on a list you will also worry less, since you know you will remember to take care of them.
3. Use the Calendar
Review upcoming events on your calendar regularly. See what is happening in the next few weeks. You can then quickly see that you need a birthday card for your boss' birthday or that your sister will be having her elective surgery soon.
4. Use Checklists
If you have recurring tasks you do regularly create checklists. An example would be a checklist for bills you need to pay monthly, weekly, or however often you pay your bills. List all who are expecting a payment and check them off as you send out payment. This works particularly well for credit cards.
Other types of checklists include home maintenance, car maintenace, home cleaning, bookkeeping tasks, or a job search checklist for interested potential employers.
5. Visualize
It you are a visual person, create a mental image for incoming information.
6. Use Mnemonics
A tool used by many to memorize large amounts of information is to create rhymes or acronyms. Medical students come to mind.
7. Improve Your Physical Well-Being
Good food, good hydration, and exercise improve your memory significantly. Proper nutrition and plenty of water have been proven to benefit your brain now and in the long term. Movement increases blood flow, which increases brain functions.
8. Get Plenty of Sleep
Make certain you sleep the required hours for your age. Most adults function best with 7 to 8 hours of sleep, but children need significanly more.
Source: Johns Hopkins Health
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