There are many external memory aids available to assist us in our daily lives. If you choose to use them it does not mean abandoning your pursuit for an improved memory. They are merely other tools that can be employed to ease the mind and help to ensure an efficient use of time. How many people do you suppose ‘remember’ to get up in the morning to the sound of an alarm clock!
The lowly Notepad
Keeping a small notepad close at hand will allow you to jot down important thoughts, ideas, numbers, names, etc.
A Little Black Book
Keeping an updated list of names, addresses, and phone numbers can save you much time and frustration.
Planners
These are known by many names such as day-timers, personal planners, appointment books and so forth. Their function is to help you schedule the various things you plan to do or wish to do in one convenient location. Meetings, appointments, birthdays, reminders, etc.
Calendars
What could be simpler than using a calendar to keep track of important dates. You could even dedicate one calendar specifically for the Birthdays of all the important people in your life.
Voice Recorders
Many of these devices are now very compact. They allow you to literally ‘hold that thought’.
Timed Medication Containers
Available in a variety of models these products will alert you when it is time to take your medication.
A Memory Spot
Having a specific location within your home where you always place things like cars keys, glasses, wallets and purses, etc. will prevent many frustrating searches.
All of the above examples are based on one common theme, getting organized! In fact getting organized will reward you in many ways including more free time which is one of life’s most valuable commodities. When you need a name you look in your little black book, for an appointment you consult your planner, check upcoming birthdays on the birthday calendar, find important papers in the file folder you created for those papers, and so on. A place for everything and everything in its place. It may sound overly simplistic but getting organized can have a pleasant effect on your life. Organize a little or organize a lot, it’s all up to you.
