Memory John

How To Remember Everything

how to remember peoples faces

How to Remember Faces

By John Graham

I get asked a lot:
“How do you remember FACES, not just names?”

First of all, if you think you are “face blind”, it’s probably something you’ve just told yourself over the years and you now fully believe it.

Stop telling yourself such stories.

You can recognize and remember people just fine.

Here’s How to Remember Faces

Step 1a: Feel their vibe

When you see someone for the first time, look at their face. 
How do you feel about them? What’s your gut reaction?

This should be something you don’t even think about. 

  • Do they seem angry?
  • Tough?
  • Arrogant?
  • Confident?
  • Sleezy?
  • Awesome?
  • Excited?

Trust your mind.
These are not facts about the person, these are your initial instincts and judgements.

Step 1b: Notice a distinct feature from their face

This forces you to look at them closer.

What ONE feature sticks out to you about them?

  • Blue eyes?
  • Big nose?
  • Curly hair?
  • Freckles?
  • Huge earrings?
  • Too much makeup?

Step 2: Create an image from their name.

What does their name sound like or make you think of?

Examples:

  • Terry = tearing their face
  • Tony = Tony the Tiger
  • Jerry = Cherry
  • Amelia = Amelia Earhart (pilot goggles)
  • Amanda = she’s “a man, duh!”

Step 3: Create a QUICK story about them. Imagine this story.

Here’s the formula:

  • Vibe or Feature + Name image = Story

(If you’re a more visual person, use their feature. If you’re more emotional/intuitive use their vibe…OR USE BOTH for a stronger story.)

It seems complex, but it’s not.

Again, trust what your mind creates here.
Even if it doesn’t make sense.
Weird = memorable.

EXAMPLES:

Brad
Vibe: Brad is a tough guy. Has an intense/strong face.
Name image: Brad = bread
Story: Imagine Brad’s face is a chunk of stale/tough bread. 

OliviaFeature: Olivia has long eyelashes with too much mascara. 
Name image: Olivia = olives
Story: Her long, pointy eyelashes have olives stuck on them. When she blinks they don’t fall out, the mascara is holding them on.

Going forward

Practice just the first part of this and notice people’s facial reactions and emotions. Notice their unique features.

Be more interested in people watching.

You are no longer “face blind.” 
You have the power to recognize and remember everyone you meet.

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