I refer to my working memory as Teflon in that nothing sticks to it. When it does, however, it’s often just long enough to write it down so I stand a chance of remembering. FYI, an example of a working memory problem is forgetting a set of directions seconds after being given them – unless they’re written down for repeated reference.
Having this challenge with working memory isn’t the biggest issue, denying this challenge and thus denying yourself the tools to remediate it is the issue.
You can bury yourself in a sea of Post-it notes or you can leverage technology in such a way as to create a funnel for everything that is important for you to keep track of each day.
Computer memory is being progressively shifted into the cloud. This means we have more options for saving our files elsewhere in cyberspace to reduce the likelihood of losing our precious pictures etc. in the event of a computer crash. One of the most exciting aspects of cloud technology is the option to share our cloud based files with others.
Services such as Google Drive and Dropbox provide a place to store your files and also grants you the option of sharing those files and folders with whomever you choose.
Now imagine a student who routinely forgets to bring home worksheets or hand in assignments. This problem is solved when teachers agree (a key feature here) to place copies of everything handed out in class (including class notes) in the students Dropbox. One place for everything, all digital instead of a cluttered backpack or series of colored folders that always seem to get misplaced or left behind. .
Of course, this can work great for adults as well.
One more tip adults may find useful. I’ve virtually eliminated the need for physical file folders in an effort to save space as well as make it easier to find things. How, you ask? I scan every important document into my computer. Now here’s the cool part. Even when I forget what folder I scanned a document into I can do a keyword search for “auto,” “medical” or whatever it pertains too and my computer will find all the documents with those keywords in them. Which means I can find any document I want in minutes instead of hours.
We can stubbornly deceive ourselves by repeating the self-defeating mantra, “I’ll remember.” Or we can embrace the reality and the technology that exists for a reason so we can experience a more productive and organized life.
Thanks for being you.
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Brian R. King, LCSW (ADHD & ASD Life Coach) is a #1 Best Selling Author, 25-year cancer survivor, adult with Dyslexia, ADHD, and Asperger’s. He’s also the father of three sons on the autism spectrum. He is known worldwide for his books and highly engaging presentations that teach the power of connection and collaboration. His strategies empower others to overcome their differences so they can build powerful and lasting partnerships. His motto is: We’re all in this together.