My mom has always had the best memory of anyone in the family…and she’s over 90 now (though she wouldn’t want me to tell anyone that!). She keeps a journal... about everyday things: the weather, appointments, who visited, prices of things, interesting articles in the news.
And now there’s research that says we remember better when we write something down using pen and paper than when we type on a computer.
Researchers have found that physical writing uses more parts of the brain than typing does, and involving multiple senses helps us remember better. Years ago, I read that we remember more when we both hear and see information, compared to just reading it. And doing something (anything!) with the information, whether actually using it or simply playing a game with the information, helps us remember even more – all because we’re using more of our senses.
All this suggests that children should learn to write, not just use a keyboard. The slower speed of writing and the increased difficulty of altering what you’ve already put down makes you organize your thoughts more concisely. As an adult, if you’re reading an important book or information article, take notes…the process of writing down what’s important to you will help you remember the details and organize the information in your mind.
There’s something about pens and paper I’ve always loved… a special pen, multiple colours of ink, a beautiful hardcover notebook to write in. Perhaps that’s part of why I like to write. I often write out an outline for a blog article with a nice sharp pencil as I'm reading and researching. The lined book I've been using for the past year and a half is almost full. But, I think I’ll start a journal too – one on paper. I tried an online version a few years ago, which offered the bonus of allowing me to add photos, but it seems what I wrote just disappeared into a list of dates. Maybe I’ll look for a really nice pen to write it with… and have a section for blog ideas!
How about you? Want to improve your memory? Try making notes of what you want to remember, or things you’d like to accomplish. Review your notes later to help your recall of the facts and check off items on your “to do” list – you may find that you feel better about your memory and your achievements!
Reference:
==============================================
I hope you're enjoying my blog articles about interesting information I've read and learned. If you do, please join my email list and share it with anyone you think might be interested in health information and staying well! I so appreciate it...
==============================================
