THINGS YOU HEARD US TALK ABOUT

It happens all the damn time: You meet someone at a party and seconds later can't remember her name. What's up with that?

Kansas State University professor Richard Harris told ScienceDaily.com that it's not because you have a crummy memory; you just aren't that into her. Harris discovered that it's our interest (or lack thereof) in something or someone that makes us remember names.

Also, if we know we'll never see someone again, or they just don't grab our attention, their names just won't stick with us.

So, what should you do to avoid awkward WTF-is-her-name-again? moments in the future? Harris recommends making it a habit to repeat someone's name back to them, like "Hi, so-and-so—it's nice to meet you" to help you remember.

And if you've already met and you're clueless as to someone's name, just "introduce" them to someone else with a, "Have you two met?" Then listen for the name (sneaky, we know—but totally effective).



(Cosmopolitan)