Lifelong memory trouble

by Ellen
(USA)

Since I was young, I had trouble with my memory. If I had a test on any subject I really had to sit at my kitchen table and study the night before, because if I tried to study through the week it just wouldn't sink in. I would be at my table for three hours just so I could get a passing grade.

I am terrible at tests. When I went into the military, I had to take my test twice and I had to take my test twice before I could graduate basic training. Even when someone gives me instructions, if I don't write them down I won't remember all of them. I am also terrible at remembering someone's name.

I have always had physical jobs in the past twenty five years because of this. I am forty three years old now and my body isn't like it used to be. I am unemployeed right now and I don't know what Im going to do to make income. I try things on the computer, but I get so frustrated, I feel so dumb!

Can you give me some advice or help?

Doug's Reply: Reinventing yourself at 43 will not be an easy task. But other people have done it, so you should be able to as well.

I think you can improve your memory, but it will require some effort. The main thing is to learn to use memory techniques in all situations.

For example, I used to be very bad at remembering names, just like you. But now I almost never forget someone's name. That is because when I meet someone for the first time, I use the face-memory technique which I have practiced over and over.

Most of the really good memory techniques involve using visualization (mental images) to remember things. The techniques really do work.

Many of the memory techniques are described on my website. For example, the face-memory technique is described here:

http://www.memory-improvement-tips.com/remembering-names.html

If you would rather read a book about the techniques, I highly recommend "The Memory Book" by Harry Lorayne. It is the classic that has helped thousands of people improve their memory.

Regarding employment, try locating a "career counseling service" in your area. In the U.S., there are services sponsored by the government that are free. This website mentions a few of them:

http://www.ehow.com/how_4849661_career-counseling-government.html

Good luck!

Douglas
Memory-Improvement-Tips.com