Cheat Codes for Everyday Problems

Mea culpa: forgetting people's names is a serious weakness of mine, and when I mess up it leaves me feeling embarrassed.

People who know me well might be shocked to see me admit this. I have crafted my mind into an extensive database for facts, figures and trivia on a plethora of subjects. I'm usually daisy-chaining tasks one after the other to accomplish what I need to each day.

Therein lies the rub. My mind gets so preoccupied with other matters that I often miss out on what's in front of me, foremost of which being remembering someone's name.

Given this problem is shared by many, we are often tempted to pass off screwing up someone's name as trivial. However, such mix ups leave people's feelings more affected than you may suspect. A person's name, in their own mind, is their identity, and their very sense of who they are and their place in this world ties directly to that name. By forgetting a person's name, you (subconsciously, and without any ill will or intent) reveal that the person in front of you just doesn't matter in your world. They're a forgettable NPC, if you will. 

I guarantee that person treats you a lot less warmly when next you meet. Wouldn't you do the same? 

Names matter. That's why I consider forgetting a person's name to be a serious issue.

I believe that it's likely we share a common problem, as most people readily admit how bad they are at memorizing people's names. If so, I have a quick cheat code for you today that you might find not only extremely helpful, but also extremely easy. 

When introduced to a new person, call them by name. Then do it over and over again.

I know what you're thinking: Paul, that sounds obnoxious, and it will get old very quickly, both for you and the introducee.

Au contraire, mon frère.

By repeating the name over and over again, you show the person in front of you the importance of remembering their name. If it feels a bit much to you, or if they seem a bit quizzical, you can explain that you are horrible with names, and that you have this secret to remembering them.

By doing so, you're accomplishing three things:

First, you're demonstrating that the person in front of you matters. People will protest that memorizing a name is not that big a deal. Kudos for their grace, but we know otherwise. Your efforts will be appreciated.

Second, you're showing a little humility in admitting a weakness. People find this endearing, much more so than bragging about accomplishments or victory. This helps in making new friends and acquaintances.

Third, you're sharing a cheat code with someone that may also struggle with names. Now they might make a friend they may have missed out on. Congratulations, you've just paid it forward.

Thanks for checking out the first cheat code. Try this out with the next person you meet, and let me know in the comments how it worked out for you. Speaking of comments, I'd love to read any of your tips for remembering names, and any suggestions for future cheat code installments. Til next time!