The Lost Sunglasses
I’m a firm believer in always pushing yourself beyond what you think you are capable of. Don’t play it safe. Learn new skills. Explore new territory. Success in life often depends on your ability to learn new things in unfamiliar territory. Sort of like learning a new rule on your first day on the job.
Here’s a quirky little example of how I test myself on a regular basis. Every time I go over someone’s house for a gathering I’ll intentionally hide my sunglasses case in a remote, hidden location in the house. Like behind the couch or in a kitchen drawer or in the closet. Yes, it sounds weird, but hear me out…
Hopefully, if I have a good time, I’ll meet new people and engage in stimulating conversation forgetting all about the sunglasses case. But as the evening comes to an end and I head home I’ll have to remember where the case is. And that’s tough – especially if there’s too much beer or food involved 
But you see that’s the test! Can I remember to take the case with me before I leave? Can I even remember where I put it? Honestly, many times I forget, and I have to apologize and schedule a pick-up the next day. Which causes wasted time for both parties involved.
Finally, after months of this tactic, I’ve been remembering to take the case with me. But the point is – always test yourself. Even in small ways. Keeps your mind ready and sharp for that “big” test one day.
I used to leave things at people’s houses and not on purpose. I wasn’t necessarily drinking or eating I was just not paying attention to my stuff, yet when I would get home I realized I really needed the item and it was a hassle to figure out where I had left it. Some how I began to adapt to not forget these things. It wasn’t a matter of testing myself though but I find your perspective very interesting.