How Can Someone Improve Their Short Term Memory?
Scientists have long made a distinction between long and short term memory. Information that is stored for just a short while is considered short term memory. It is very common for an individual to forget a phone number or a grocery list in less than 1 minute. These items usually have no link to other stored memories. On the other hand, memories that have shaped our personalities or that are associated with strong emotions can last an entire lifetime. Fond thoughts and memories such as the smell of grandma’s homemade biscuits are usually stored in a person’s long term memory bank. Even if forgetting information as trivial as a cell phone number isn’t life-changing, it’s still quite annoying.
Those interested in short term memory improvement should think of memory as a muscle. They will have to employ short term memory improvement practices everyday. Associating, adding pictures, chunking are easy ways to flex the memory muscle. Associating involves relating new information to something else to jog the memory. Someone who is not great at remembering names might take a person’s name and relate it to something about the person such as “Bob likes to run.”
This method may work for some but might exclude those who receive little benefit from learning in an auditory fashion. Visual learners can utilize pictures. There is no need to bring a notepad though. The pictures are created mentally. The person needs to repeat the word and then see it in their mind.
Chunking is also a recognized method of practice. Chunking is breaking down a large unit of letters or numbers into smaller parts. An example of chunking can be seen in the format of telephone numbers. Combine these processes with routine physical changes for the best results.
The gift of recall is a bodily function. Improvements in physical and emotional health will lead to improvements in short term memory. Sleep deprivation will decrease ability to recollect information. Vital memory boosting action occurs in the deepest stages of the rest cycles. Also, eating healthy and exercising will enhance recall abilities. Both the body and the brain need optimal fuel.
As cliché as it sounds, clearing one’s mind will also help. Smelling the roses and enjoying a hobby or two helps cope with stress. Prolonged stress negatively affects learning and memory. Short term memory improvement can have positive effects on career and personal success. There is nothing to lose!