Now that we're expected to use plastic cards for everything from withdrawing money at a cash machine to taking out books from the library, remembering all those PIN numbers can be a nightmare.
One way around this is to change your PINs to numbers that translate into four letter words you'll more easily remember.
Let's say, for example, that you have two daughters called Nina and Debbie. You could use 6461 (Nina) on one card and 3327 (Debs) on the other. Of course, you'll still need to remember which card is which so try using visual association. If your 'Nina' card is blue, imagine Nina with a blue face.
If you're unable to change your PIN, try using mnemonics to associate the translated letters with a short phrase you're able to remember. If your library card PIN is 2283, you could use "books are too expensive" or if your bankers card is 6468, it could be "money grows on trees". To help strengthen your recall ability even more, try imagining your library full of gold-plated books or your garden full of trees with banker's cards hanging from the branches.
Physical Health
Research has shown that those who exercise regularly, eat healthily and who have regular sleep patterns are far more likely to recall information than others. Regular exercise is crucial to mental agility because it helps oxygen circulate to the brain. Exercise also leads to an improved sleep pattern. Combine this with a balanced diet and you'll be giving your memory the best possible boost.