By Debbie Kerr The five-second rule has taken on a whole new meaning for me. While the rule generally applies to how long food can remain on the floor and still be safe to eat, I’ve found that it’s the maximum amount of time that can elapse between when I think of doing something and when I do it. While this may seem like a straight-forward rule (that is, have the thought and complete the task right away), there are several risk factors that could make even five seconds too long. Recognizing Risk Factors Since memory (or lack thereof) is a personal experience, I’m sure you have a few of your own. Here are a few potential risk factors for me.
Reducing the Risk(s) Since I have my own memory issues, I may not be the best person to make suggestions. Here are a few suggestions (some actually useful and others tongue in cheek).
Being Kind to Yourself Although it’s frustrating to continually forget what you were trying to do, be kind to yourself. Your own frustration can sabotage your memory. The more pressure you put on yourself, the worse your memory might become. There are also factors like age, current events in your life (stress), medications, and health issues that could be affecting your memory. Your memory issues may be something to discuss with your doctor. While an elephant may never forget, a human is likely to forget something. Be kind to yourself. After all, you're only human.
2 Comments
Andrea
7/25/2020 06:22:00 am
These are great suggestions! I especially like the no question zone, one too many times my husband has asked me to do something while I’m indulged in my own thought...it gets to the point where he asks me to repeat what he just asked and my lack of answer always disappoints him!
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Susan Vanover
7/29/2020 11:33:28 am
Finally getting round to reading this...HILARIOUS!!
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Debbie KerrOver 30-years of writing experience, about 10 years as a cancer survivor, and a lifetime purveyor of wit and laughter. Sign up for notifications of new posts.
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