Harvey Mackay Column- Exercise Your Brain So Your Memory Doesn't Get Flabby
In this May 7 2026 advice column, Harvey Mackay argues that most people’s poor memory stems from a lack of training rather than an innate flaw. He outlines how memory aligns with learning styles—hearing, seeing, doing—and offers a suite of practical, everyday techniques to strengthen memory. The column lists actionable habits such as writing things down, using digital reminders, creating name associations, repeating and reviewing information, placing visual cues in the environment, employing mind maps and charts, staying organized, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing mindfulness, and challenging the brain with puzzles or new skills. Mackay connects memory to creativity, citing psychologist Art Markman’s claim that creative problem‑solving depends on retrieving relevant memories. A humorous anecdote about a man with a “great” memory illustrates that even strong recall has blind spots. The piece closes with a moral that treats memory like a muscle—requiring regular practice and care—to keep life’s “symphony” clear and precise.
Topics
Memory as a Trainable Skill: Learning Styles and Historical Insight
Explains that most memory lapses are due to untrained memory, referencing the split of learning preferences (hearing, seeing, doing) and a Confucian quote.
Writing and Note‑Taking: Physical Reinforcement of Memory
Advocates writing things down—meeting notes, lists, dates—as a primary method to embed information through the act of recording.
Digital Tools and Alarms: Leveraging Technology for Recall
Recommends apps, calendars, voice memos, and phone alarms to capture ideas and set reminders for personal and professional tasks.
Association and Repetition Techniques: Building Strong Neural Links
Describes name‑association tricks, repeated review of birthdays, phone numbers, and meeting notes to cement details in memory.
Environmental Cues and Visual Aids: External Memory Supports
Suggests placing notes on the floor, bathroom mirror, car, and using mind maps, charts, acronyms, and visual reminders to keep information in sight.
Organization, Lifestyle, and Mindfulness: Foundations for Brain Health
Links tidy spaces, consistent filing, balanced diet, regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness/meditation to improved memory performance.
Brain Challenges and Continuous Learning: Keeping Memory Agile
Encourages puzzles, reading, language learning, and taking on new work challenges to stimulate the brain and enhance recall.
Memory‑Creativity Connection: Insight from Art Markman
Cites psychologist Art Markman’s view that creativity relies on retrieving relevant memories, tying memory training to innovative thinking.