What makes us forget? There are a number of factors that make forgetting more likely.  The first step in improving memory is to plan for remembering.  Anticipate where there will be challenges and plan strategies to help.  Here are a few common problems and solutions.

Problem:  Forgetting what someone tells us.

Solution: Take notes.  Mark appointments in your calendar the instant you make them.  Place a note pad and pen by every phone.  Make a grocery list and don’t forget to take it with you.  Record important conversations on tape.

Problem: Difficulty following characters in a novel or learning new facts.

Solution: Inside the front cover of most books is a blank page.  Use the blank page to write the name, a couple of facts, and the page number for each character as they are introduced.  This extra effort will help you remember the character as it focuses your attention.  It is attached to the place you will use it.

Problem: Forgetting where things are placed.

Solution: Everything has a place and everything goes in its place.  It doesn’t matter how inconvenient it is.  It doesn’t matter how tired you are.  Always put your eyeglasses, keys, wallet, etc. in their assigned place.

Problem: Your navigation skills are poor.

Solution: Make schematic maps with landmarks before you drive somewhere.  Keep them simple and don’t forget to look at them backwards before returning home.

Problem: Finding your car in the parking lot.
Solution: When you park, stand by your car for a minute thinking only of where it is parked.  When going to the mall, always park by the same store.  Not only will you find your car but you might get more exercise.

Problem: Forgetting to take your medications.

Solution: Make taking the medication part of a routine.  I place my blood pressure pills next to my razor.  Now taking them is part of the routine of shaving.  For those harder to remember afternoon pills, use an alarm.  Put the alarm clock next to the pills.

Problem: Forgetting birthdays or anniversaries.

Solution: Mark the dates in your calendar.  Do it now and do it for the rest of this year.  Don’t forget to mark a few surprise gifts (e.g., flowers) for someone special.

These are but a few examples.  I am sure you can come up with others that better fit your needs.  The solutions are often simple.  We just need to take the time and effort to make better memory plans.