Have you found yourself thinking, "Why can't I remember that?" - Let's face it, I'm sure we've all been there at some point. You may think you just have a hard time remembering names or numbers, but perhaps it is how you are trying to process the information that is the problem.

I know firsthand that when in a conversation, it is easier to focus on your response to the person talking to you than what is being said to you. This is problematic and it isn't easy to break, but it does take your focus away from absorbing the information.

Here are several things you can do when communicating with others to retain the knowledge.

• Repeat - Say it again, "Repeat". You may repeat the information to yourself mentally to help your mind focus on the topic. You may say the information out loud for clarification to yourself emphasize importance or to clarify your understanding to others. Repetition and frequency both assist with memorization and recognition. Don't be afraid to repeat yourself or others when information is important.

• Connect - Don't just listen, connect. When possible connect with multiple senses (see, smell, taste or touch). When you meet someone, shake their hand and respond with a greeting (e.g. "Nice to meet you, [their name]"). If you can combine multiple senses, it will help deepen or embed the moment into long term memory. Engage with your senses and surroundings, context is a great memory jogger.

• Weave - Interconnect the new information with your existing knowledge and experiences. Is the place the person told you already familiar? What about the day they told you? Perhaps the conversation reminded you of a song or idea. Use that information to connect the familiar to the unfamiliar. The more information or nodes you can connect the new information with, the faster you will be able to recall it in the future.

Now get out there and Repeat, Connect and Weave your way to remembering the world around you.