Why Can’t I Remember Anything?
One of the most frequent questions I was asked as a practicing psychologist and more recently as a psychology professor is why can’t I remember anything.
The problem is most likely a focusing issue — not a memory issue.
An important distinction between memory and attention that I share in the focus video below.
In the video in particular, I describe how the Atkinson–Shiffrin memory model (see model below) differentiates between sensory, short-term, and long-term memory.
And the important implications this model has for one’s ability to focus and remember information long term.
You can’t do big things if you’re distracted by small things.
Link to Fall Focus Article
5 Ways to Focus Better
Issue 124. The Drive Magazine.
Psychology Article: thedrivemagazine.com/posts/5-ways-to-focus-better
Video of Post: Watch Here
Thriving Under Pressure 
I really loved this post .. thank you once again I can relate . My friend and I were just talking about this today about not being able to focus lately ..
Yes! I love it when our real life conversations coincide with our blogging conversations.
Share this follow up video with your friend and let me know how the memory model that I sketch on the chalkboard applies in her life: 💭 🤔
Yes me too!
“You can’t do big things if you’re distracted by small things.” What incredible wisdom! I fully understand the frustration of focus–it seems to be a constant battle in a very loud and demanding world.
Your ideas were stellar–especially putting the phone away and making a sacred space. The phone is a distraction that we’ve grown to believe is normal–and it’s not. It’s why I look at my kids and grands and think it’s actually a body part instead of an accessory.
Thanks for this timely reminder and great insight, my friend.
I love how you think.
“It’s why I look at my kids and grands and think it’s actually a body part instead of an accessory.”
Body part! Brilliant encapsulation of the iphone 📲 Gayle.
I really appreciate you taking the time to watch the video and read the article. In doing so, you bring my ideas to a higher place. Springboarding new posts and psychology lectures.
Wishing you a Wonderful Wednesday!
Andrea 📚💙
Should I mention multitasking
Some job descriptions desire multitasking
Meditation, the ultimate focusing practice is the opposite of multitasking
We are good at focusing in certain tasks or situations others we go to auto pilot
Observe your mind when doing mundane tasks,
The mind wanders and ruminates which is not a good thing
I love how you contrast multitasking with meditation. Brilliant example of singular focus is the only focus. Full on, in the moment presence. 🍃
Aware Presence is always the same
Our interpretation is different
Focus is interrupted or influenced by thought and emotion
Look how focus disappears when we are late.
The faster the mind goes to more focus is lost
The body can go supersonic the mind works best going slow being empty
Thanks so much for sharing this valuable info. I’ve often struggled staying focused, not only by small distractions but also because I’m a dreamer who floats off topic. I can see your positive energy and sincere empathy in your eyes. Not that many care and share so well done and thanks again 🙏
You are an excellent reader of nonverbals! I care deeply about people and sharing different fun, uplifting perspectives. Psychology for the people! 🌏💙💕
Coincidentally, the topic of an upcoming blog post & today’s YouTube video:
Great advice also for the teens today that are always on their phones.
For sure! 📲 Excellent application of this concept Michele. Thanks for reading & watching my post(s) on Focus and Memory. 🔖 🎥
So many times we forget to simply live our life with intent. I really liked your focus on creating a sacred space. We should bring this space with us wherever we go. A wise person once gave me an acronym for focus
Follow
One
Course
Until
Successful
Thank you for this reminder.
Follow
One
Course
Until
Successful
Thank so much Dr. Thomas!
For your feedback & input.
This ☝️ acronym is five star!