How does the brain remember things

Here a few ideas for you to remember to do things

• 1. Write things down. Many people don't understand that trying to keep a lot of information in their brains instead of writing it down is simply adding on the stress. Anytime you remember something make sure you have markers or papers so that you can write it down. Just make sure that you organize your reminders later so that those papers can be useful.
  
  2. Maintain everything together. Keeping things together will save you valuable time searching for the information. This will help you remember easier.
  
  3. Plan ahead. This is one tip that many people don't think about. They end up doing things the last minute and this brings them many problems. Separate blocks of time to simply plan your next days and then your next weeks. The more you can plan ahead the less stress you will have in your life.
  
  4. Email reminders. There are many good and free e-mail reminder services available. You can type in what you want to remember, such as a welcome party, anniversary or special event, and you will receive an e-mail reminder when the date is approaching. I personally use gmail. This is a terrific way to jog your memory through internet services.
  
  5. Leave yourself an answering machine message. If you have an answering machine this is a great way to remember. The thing is you have to remember to check your messages. If you're at the office and think you'll forget something when you get home, simply call and remind yourself of that task.
  
  6. Keep an audio recorder and talk to yourself listing out the things that you need to get done. Then play the recorder back while you are doing something else. this is a sure way to keep your to do list fresh in your mind. Your handy recorder can be your second ears and eyes.
  
  7. Organize your papers. You can end clutter by organizing office files and this will make finding things so much faster and easier.
  
  8. Use sticky notes. Those wonderful, little sticky notes are amazing as memory helpers. Want to remember something prior to leaving your home? Just mark it down on a Post-It Note and stick it to the inside of your door. The bright, neon colors will be great to catch your eye as you are leaving. You will not likely miss it! Need to make an urgent call first thing in the morning? Leave Post-It Notes next yo your telephone.
  
  9. Use timers and alarms. Take advantage of alarm clocks and timers throughout your day. Have to take the garbage out by 12 noon? Set your alarm clock to remind you. Want to leave for the soccer game by 7 p.m.? Set your timer to beep a few minutes before it is time to start to get ready.
  
  10. Eat well and get plenty of rest. Being healthy is essential to remember. It's very hard to remain focused and alert when our body hasn't been nourished.
  
  11. Visual memory joggers. Visual reminders will help you remember and stay focused. Use visual reminders for remembering your goals. If your goal is to take a trip to a Ireland in a few years, keep a magazine photograph of Ireland right on your desk. If your goal is to lose 30 lbs. in six months, find a picture or ornament that will help remind you of this goal each day.