Is Forgetfulness Getting in Your Way?
I Forgot.
Whenever I catch myself saying, “I forgot,” then I remember. I remember that I shouldn’t rely on my brain to retain information and expect that I will be able to access it at precisely the moment I need it.
Over time I have come to accept this. And I have worked hard to find a work around for my particular wiring. It is not about making excuses – it is about accepting what is and finding solutions.
Here is what is on my mind as I write this:
- What should I cook for dinner?
- I need to attend science fair meeting tonight.
- When should I write my ezine?
- When am I going to fold laundry?
- I have a 1:00 client.
- I need to finish this blog.
- What will the weather be like this weekend for skating?
- I need to run.
- First I need to eat – I’m hungry.
Sound Familiar?
With all of this on my mind, I am not going to necessarily remember the details of what is important to me. What I discovered long ago, and, admittedly need to keep relearning, is that for those things that I want to remember at a specific time I need to use a tool to serve as my external memory.
If it is not in my calendar or on my task list, I assume that I will forget it. Oh, I may remember – I may even remember at the right time. I just don’t assume this will happen.
- I don’t say, “I’ll write it down later.” I probably won’t.
- I don’t say, “I’ll remember to do it.” I probably won’t.
- I don’t make a commitment to someone and say, “Will you remind me of that later.” It is not their responsibility.
I got tired of saying “I forgot.”
Now I use my calendar and task list for everything that I want to remember. In my case, it is a Palm Smartphone that I sync with Outlook on my computer.
Are you tired of saying I forgot?
What do you want to do to help yourself remember the details of what is important to you?
