Hi, Reader,

Is Technology Testing Your Patience … or Exercising Your Brain?

Have you noticed that more and more we are being asked to verify ourselves, whether with codes, identifying objects in a grid or somehow otherwise convincing an AI bot that we are human? Wait, what?

Remember when a password was something whispered at the door of a speakeasy? Now we need one to do practically anything - and apparently knowing the password isn’t enough.

First they text a code to your phone. OK, fair enough. Then they email another code. OY! Then you discover the email is on the device you’re trying to log into. And by the time you’ve found the six-digit number, “Your verification code has expired.” ARRGGH!

But here’s the good news: every time we learn a new app, figure out where that disappearing screen went, remember a password, or successfully outsmart a verification code, we’re asking our brains to pay attention, problem-solve, remember and adapt. That’s mental flexibility at work.

So the next time technology makes you crazy, instead of yelling at the computer, congratulate yourself: “I’m not frustrated. I’m exercising my brain!” (Okay … you can yell a little.) But first

🔐 BRAIN-tertainer Verification Required!

Before you’re allowed to finish this email, we need to make sure you’re really you. No phone required. No email required. And absolutely nothing has been hidden in your backyard.
​All you need to do is

Crack the TECH CODE

Since technology loves verification codes, here’s one that you get to decipher. Each clue describes a familiar bit of technology. Write down the individual answer, then take the first letter of each word to crack the verification code.

If you've had any trouble getting verified, the code is revealed in the P.S. below, not buried in your backyard!.

Til next, Be Memorable,

P.S. Answers:

P.P.S. For more brain strengthening activities the next OutSmart Aging™ Experience happens online September 10th. I hope to see you there!