Issue 11: How to Make Your Memory Stick (Like Velcro)

“You have heard that it was said… but I say to you…” (Matthew 5:21, 27, etc.)

Jesus used various methods in his teaching, most famously the parable, but also the method of connection or linking. He didn’t drop brand-new ideas on His listeners out of the blue—He connected His words to something His audience already knew: the Old Testament scriptures. By linking fresh truth with familiar foundations, He made it easier to understand, remember, and apply.

That’s exactly how your brain works.

Memory Strategy: Connection (or Linking)

Facts, names, and details that stand alone are more likely to slip away. But when you link new information to something you already know, it anchors in your memory and becomes easier to recall later.

Think of it this way: isolated facts are like boats drifting at sea. But connected facts? They’re tied securely to the dock—you can find them again easily.

For example: 

Remembering names

If you meet someone named Sarah, don’t just hope you’ll remember. Immediately connect her name with another Sarah you know—maybe a friend, cousin, or Bible character. That simple link strengthens the memory.

Tasks and to-dos

Tasks are easy to forget when they float around in isolation. But if you connect them to existing habits or events, you’re more likely to follow through. For example:

• Put your prescription refill reminder right next to your toothbrush.
  

• Pair “taking the trash out” with “walking the dog.”
  

• Link “call the plumber” with “when I check email after lunch.”

Habit stacking

Want to start a new habit like taking a multivitamin? Don’t leave it floating on its own. Stack it with something you already do—like eating dinner. That connection helps the new habit stick.

Reflection

What kinds of things do you tend to forget most often—names, tasks, conversations, or facts?
Now think: What could I connect them to?

• A person you already know
  

• An event already on your calendar
  

• A habit you already do automatically
  

• A fact you already understand

The more connections you make, the stronger your memory web becomes.

In Him,

Dr. Matt

Christian Neuropsychologist | Fellow Traveler in Faith and Clarity
https://clearmindweekly.beehiiv.com/ 
www.drmattbridgman.com 

PS
If you’d like a structured way to practice strategies like this, I created a 30-day memory strengthening journal. In just 5 minutes a day, you’ll practice 5 different strategies (including connection/linking) using short passages. By the end, you’ll be able to apply them to anything you want to remember.

👉 You can find it here: Clear Mind Journal for Memory