As we age, it’s common to experience those frustrating moments of forgetfulness.
Neuroscience professor, Charan Ranganath of UC – Davis gives four key habits to sharpen your memory:
1. Focus: Ditch multitasking. Concentrate on one task at a time to bolster memory strength. Dedicate specific times for tasks and sprinkle in breaks to recharge—meditation, a stroll, or daydreaming can do wonders.
2. Sleep Well: Prioritize quality sleep. It’s essential for clearing brain waste and cementing memories.To enhance your sleep, limit screens, heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bed. And if you’re struggling with snoring, consider getting checked for sleep apnea.
3. Seek Novelty: Break the monotony. Novelty keeps the brain nimble. Go for a walk, meet new people, and seek new experiences. These will become the building blocks of vivid, lasting memories.
4. Overconfidence in our memory can lead to disappointment. Accept that memorization is hard, and give yourself permission to get it wrong before you get it right. Test yourself repeatedly over time to strengthen recall of info you need.
These four insights remind us that memory isn’t just about holding onto the past—it’s about empowering our present and future. By understanding and nurturing our brain’s needs, we can maintain a sharp, reliable memory well into our later years.
I have always been in awe of the night sky, and the beauty of it all. Like many, I was captivated by the recent eclipse—an experience that reminded me of the power of awe.
The profound sense of wonder, sparked by the vast and beautiful, not only lifts our spirits but also has tangible benefits.
Research shows awe can shift our focus off ourselves, and ignite creativity. It even encourages kindness, strengthens connectedness, and by stimulating the vagal nerve it can reduce stress, aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
And the best part about it is that it’s not some quick fix. The impact of awe can be felt for days after an inspiring event.
By simply taking a moment to appreciate nature’s grandeur, delighting in uplifting content, or sharing inspiring tales, we can all harness awe’s transformative impact – both for ourselves and for those around us.
So instead of waiting for another eclipse, seek out more opportunities to cultivate awe across all aspects of your life. The inspiration and sense of wellbeing could very well lay the groundwork for your next great innovation. If nothing else, your life will be enriched, and a better you means a better world.
In a hockey game, players stop and change directions hundred of times. There’s a lesson there for all of us,, in business and in life…
(The article I mention in the video is not only about Wayne Simmonds‘ evolution from a dream-filled youngster to an NHL star, but an homage to trailblazer Willie O’Ree, the first black hockey player in the NHL Enjoy and be inspired!)
For years, I’ve encouraged swapping “post mortem” for “lessons learned” when a project concludes.
Why?
“Post mortem” is an autopsy term. Wrong for projects. It suggests something ended in an unanticipated fashion.
Yet, when a project wraps, it’s not an end—it’s a launchpad. New beginnings, new sales…
“Lessons learned” is positive. It implies growth, not demise. Projects aren’t to be mourned and methodically dissected. They’re meant to be celebrated and learned from and those learnings shared with those eager to be more.
This isn’t just semantics. It’s about fostering a culture of curiosity, improvement, and success.
“Lessons learned” (I’m open to other terms!) encourages looking at what worked and what didn’t with equal importance. It promotes a growth mindset, driving teams to share successes and continuously improve.
Words shape perceptions.
“Lessons learned” makes reflective practice appealing, not daunting. Learning leads to crafting better strategies, cleaner tactics, and ultimately, greater success.
Conclusion? Let’s leave “post mortems” to the medical field. Embrace “lessons learned.” It’s a small change in wording with a massive shift in mindset.
Creativity, like light, is essence- Live, grow, glow…
What does this quote mean to you? How does it inspire you?
Creativity is not something that we have or don’t have.
It is our sublime essence…
Creativity is the light burning in our souls, illuminating our paths, inspiring us towards…
But sometimes, we forget our creative essence. We get caught up in the routines and responsibilities of daily life. We let fear, doubt, and criticism dim our light.
We conform to the expectations and norms of others. We lose touch with our true self and our unique gifts.
How can we reconnect with our creative essence and let it shine? Here are some suggestions:
Live with curiosity. Find new ways to stimulate your imagination and expand your knowledge.Â
Grow with action. Take steps every day, however small, to make your creative visions reality.
Glow with gratitude. Appreciate the process and the outcome of your creative work. Celebrate your achievements, no matter the size. Reward yourself! Be thankful for those who support you. Gratitude helps you enjoy your life journey and inspires others with positive attitude and energy.
Creativity, like light, is essence- Live, grow, glow…
We are all creative beings with a unique light to share with the world. Let’s embrace our creative essence and let it shine in everything we do!
While sticking to tried and true methods is safe, stepping outside your comfort zone to experiment and learn can help you create an inspiring life, product or experience.
ZenStorming 