You shake someone’s hand and two seconds later you can’t remember their name. What a terrible memory you must have! Actually….no.

Think about it. It is impossible for a normal healthy brain to hear a name and two seconds later not be able to remember it. It is not a memory problem it is a FOCUS problem. In order to remember a name you have to be FOCUSED!

I always tell people before you attempt to memorize anything make sure you focus yourself. A great way to do this for names and faces is as you are walking towards the person ask yourself this question, ‘What is their name? What is their name? What is their name?’ Do this over and over to yourself as you are walking towards them. Do not say this out loud! :)

This focuses your brain. Brain Tracy says that well worded questions are one of the best ways to focus your brain and memory. This is a well worded question.

There are things that you can take that will have a negative impact on your brain and hurt your focus. One of those things is sleep medication. This is a tough one for me because I often have trouble sleeping but I do notice an impact when I have been taking sleep medications and poor performance of my memory.

There are foods that have a negative effect on your brain and are bad brain foods and you want to avoid those as well to keep a good focus. Examples are: refined sugar, white flour, salt and artificial sweeteners.

Let’s face it, if you aren’t focused you aren’t going to be able to recall anything! Focus impacts your memory!

Finally, exercise is a great tool to use to clear your head and focus your brain.

Next time you meet someone, practices these tips and remember their name 2 seconds later!

My name is Ron White and I am a two time USA Memory Champion