What can we learn from Mr. Perry’s all-too-human blunder? When I’m coaching presentation skills I warn attendees to be wary when using the phrase: “The three most important things are…” Under the harsh glare of the spotlight you may well forget the third item.

In fact, the best way to remember a list is by visual association because you’re acting in accordance with how your brain actually works.

Visual Association

Joshua Foer—author of Moonwalking with Einstein (a book about competitive memorization)—observed that governor Perry could have created a mental image incorporating the three cabinet level agencies he aimed to change.

To quote Foer: “Maybe his favorite elementary school teacher standing behind a lemonade stand handing out wads of cash, while shooting lightning bolts out of his underarms. That wacky image would have reminded him he wanted to cut education, commerce, and energy.”

Sure, it’s totally ridiculous. But, then again, this daft diagram might just have altered the entire course of Mr. Perry’s career.

FYI: Here’s a classic method for remembering a list of items. Give this method a try and you’ll be amazed how quickly and easily you can recall a series of (many more than three) unrelated items.

The Broader Point

Are you striving to create a richer, more meaningful life for yourself in a science-smart way? Or, are you making life more difficult than it needs to be by struggling against how your brain naturally functions? If, for example, you’re trying to lose weight, are you aware of what scientists have discovered about willpower? Or, if you’re trying to get organized, are you familiar with the research on time management?

Here’s the deal: You can plough through the scientific stuff yourself. Or, you can let me do the heavy lifting and present you with the simple action steps that make all the difference. That’s what this blog is all about. I hope to see you two weeks from now…

I’d love to hear what you think. You can speak your mind in the box below…

In addition to presenting the keynote speech, I attended several excellent breakout sessions given by Sutter Health University and Sutter Health Communications. During a session on social media I saw a video that both deeply moved me and illustrated a key point about powerful storytelling. Warning: I had an ex-marine tell me he tears up every time he watches this video. (Just for the record, so did I.)

Okay, when you’ve regained your emotional composure, I’ll continue…

The Teaching Point

Doris was lovingly cared for at the Sutter North Medical Foundation Hospice. According to their website, the hospice offers “comfort-oriented care and emotional support to patients and their families when illness cannot be cured”. Now, while in the case of Sutter Health this statement is completely accurate, it’s something you can imagine reading on any hospice website.

Here’s the teaching point: The insightful people in Sutter Health Communications have added the power of an emotionally compelling story. The story of Doris and her zip-line adventure makes it abundantly clear that Sutter North Medical Foundation Hospice delivers on its promise of “comfort-oriented care and emotional support”.

What aspects of your service or product might be considered commonplace? Consider illustrating these features and benefits with an emotionally compelling story.

Incidentally, if (as I am) you’re touched by Doris’ story and feel moved to make a donation (to help this wonderful not-for-profit facility fulfill one last wish for their patients) contact:
Julie Eckardt, Fund Development Director
Tel: (530) 749-3347
Email: Julie Eckardt

As always, your comments are most welcome…