When people are asked about the most important things in their lives, they’ll usually put their cherished memories near the top of the list. Unfortunately, as you grow older you may notice that your memory is not what it used to be.
The good news is that there are simple steps you can take in order to improve your memory without a whole lot of effort. In the end, you’ll be glad you did them and you’ll realize that your memory is definitely worth the effort.
Consider trying the following tips and techniques to improve your memory:
1. Repetition. Repetition transfers information in your brain from short term to long term memory. Simple, right? So why not use it more often?
* If you’re trying to remember names, repeat the names out loud or write them down.
* If you need to remember information, write it on flash cards and review them periodically.
2. Reduce your stress level. Long term stress can do some serious damage to your mental health. Stress plays a large role in your ability to remember things. If you engage in stress relieving activities every day, you’ll be doing a service to your overall health and improve your memory in the process.
3. Avoid rushing. It’s tempting to rush through life at a fast pace. However, you’re much more likely to forget things if you’re moving too quickly. If you’re in a situation where you know you’ll have to remember information, give yourself a proper amount of time to process the information.
4. Enjoy puzzles. Try engaging in some kind of puzzle or mind teaser every day. When your brain is used to working, it’ll continue to do so. If it spends too much time being idle, your memory skills will start to slip without you even really noticing it.
* Exercising your brain is just as important as exercising your body.
5. Think positively. When you have a positive attitude, you’re more likely to achieve great things. There’s no exception to this rule when it comes to your memory. If you believe that you have a poor memory, it’ll be so. Think positive thoughts, and your memory skills will automatically improve.
6. Stay organized. Make an effort to strengthen your organizational skills. Write down reminders for yourself and keep track of data. If your life is disorganized, it’s harder to remember things.
7. Get a good night’s rest. Your brain requires a certain amount of sleep in order to function properly. A lack of sleep makes it harder to concentrate and less likely to commit information to long term memory.
8. Improve your health. Improving your overall health strengthens your memory as well. A good diet and regular exercise maintain your brain function in top shape. Exercise also pumps blood to the brain, which keeps you alert and active.
9. Avoid distractions. Sometimes you’ll notice that you have trouble remembering things because you may have been distracted while you were trying to concentrate.
* When people are talking to you, make sure you give your undivided attention.
* When you’re working on your computer, keep the TV and other distractions to a minimum.
Remember to stay organized and actively keep your mental and physical health a top priority, and you’ll enjoy a healthy memory for many years to come!
