Page 48 - Healthy Brain Living Book

Still another device that works for some is this: After flipping

mentally through your shortlist, look at a bedside object, like a

clock radio. Tie your mental memory to that object, so that when

you look at it the next morning, your list will pop back into your

head.

Ensuring these tips work requires that you do it regularly— it’s a

no-brainer!

Tip #3 - What’s in a Name?

Having trouble remembering someone’s name is a common

complaint. As part of ongoing communication, remembering a

name is crucial. Meeting with a person you’ve interacted with

previously and not remembering their name is, if nothing else,

embarrassing. Here are some ways to avoid going over that cliff.

Physicians at UCLA tell us that we should make recalling a

person’s name like taking a picture. First, you “look,” by focusing

on the person you’re meeting. Then you say their name: “Hi,

Nancy!” As you do this, simultaneously visualize matching Nancy’s

face with something (e.g., hair color, clothing items, etc.).

Then, connect the two. Join the images so face and visual come

together. Then do it again, by saying the person’s name (e.g.,

“Nancy”).

While looking at her, visualize her blonde hair, and certain things

about her face while saying her name aloud (as in an introduction).

The art of communication is one of the cogs in the wheel that

keeps society rolling forward. Being aware of someone’s name

and being able to repeat it when you see and network with them

a second or third time is not only a courtesy, but it’s also an

icebreaker. Launching a discussion while knowing the name of

44