Remember The Details

Many people like to feel important and that they matter in this world. We all strive for connection and belonging as human beings.

It can be as simple as someone forgetting our name that may makes us feel unimportant, not worth remembering, and not cared for. It makes us feel horrible when they fail to remember, but when they do remember, we feel the opposite. We feel happy, important, that we matter, and that we bring value to this world.

Imagine a time where someone you respect remembered your name, what did you feel? It was probably pleasant. I remember the time when I was new in a Muay Thai class and one of the coaches called me in for a demonstration. He said, “Hey Von, can you do a round kick.” This brought a huge smile to my face because I had so much respect and admiration for his work ethic. By him calling my name was an honor and something I will never forget because I felt that I brought value to the class by demonstrating a move.

We can’t underestimate the small details such as remembering names because we have no idea how much it may impact a person.

For those people who say “I’m not good at remembering names” that’s simply not true. One of the reasons they don’t remember people’s names is because they don’t take the time to be fully present and acknowledge the person. If you tell yourself that you are not good at remembering names, then you will get to keep those limitations. It becomes an excuse or a reason to stay disconnected.

You might ask how you can get better at remembering small details?

Here’s one recommendation: By being genuinely curious with the other person, be interested and be engaging with the conversation and this allows you to connect deeper with the other individual. Simply make being present your priority.

Thinking back in my High School days one of my teachers Mrs. Nicole asked me how I was doing with my hobby of martial arts. I was sure that she kept notes or mental notes in her head because she took the time to try to remember mine. There were about 25 students in the classroom. I was pleased that she considered remembering my name and what I love to do. I appreciated what she had done, because the effort that she put forth, felt like an act of care.