Increasingly relying on technology has reduced our dependence on our grey matter. We're helpless without our phones and Internet connections. It's time to pull up those socks and activate those brain cells.
Interviewer: "What's your greatest fear?"
Bill Gates: "I don't want my brain to stop working".
Doodle
Doodling while listening to important information has scientifically proven to improve memory recall. Converting numbers, names, etc. into fun doodles helps retain the information.
Create ACRONYMS
If you need to learn the names of 15 different places, names, etc. create an acronym. Make sure the acronym is a simple word to remember.
Explain It to Someone
Explaining a process to someone else makes the information your own. The brain processes the data and stores it in your memory.
"My brain is like the Bermuda Triangle. Information goes in and then it's never found again." - Unknown
Retrieval Practice
Pause to recall important information. Data-retrieval exercises help the brain register the information in its long-term memory bank.
Adjective to Names
Adding funny, catchy adjectives like chatty Cathy, tiny Tessa, annoying Alan, etc. helps remember names.
Name Memory Trick
Using a person's name in a sentence thrice during the first conversation helps recall their name later. For example, "So, John, where are you from?", etc.
An Attitude to Learn
It's important to develop an attitude to keep learning. It keeps the brain active and sharp. Keep adding new information to what you already know about the subject.
Print in Large Font
If you have to recollect a lot of facts and figures in a meeting, get a printout of the material in large font. Read, underline, and highlight important words. The data gets retained better.
The biggest lie I tell myself is "I don't need to write that down, I'll remember it." - Unknown
Write it Down
Make it a habit to note down important information in a diary or on your phone. Jotting down registers the information better in the brain.
Avoid Distractions
Avoid multitasking and give your complete attention to an important task. Distractions like emails, messages, social media updates, phone calls, etc. need to be avoided.
Brain Training Exercises
Brain cells need to be used, exercised and challenged like any other part of the body. Play simple memory or observation games. Look at a picture, listen to a video, etc. and try to recall the details.
"I'm not sure if I have free time or I'm just forgetting to do something!" - Unknown
Add a Tune
To learn a particular sequence of facts and events, try adding a tune to the information and sing it.
Avoid Brain Numbing Activities
Avoid programs and games that dull the mind. Limit video games, instead watch inspirational videos, shows or movies. Keep up with current affairs.
Get Organized
A cluttered workspace will leave you confused and forgetful. Organize your workspace and maintain lists. Download organizer apps that will help you remember what you need to attend to.
Mental Associations
Making connections between people, names, numbers, places, etc. helps remember information about them. For eg, if Lucas is from Texas, picture Lucas in a cowboy hat, standing next to your other friends from Texas.
Downtime
Research reveals that a quick 15-minute nap in between study sessions actually helps retain information better.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit." - Aristotle