Bill Russell's Incredible Memory

As Bill Russell was approaching his 86th birthday, his wife, Jeannine, was wondering what special gift to give him — and found on YouTube the 1955 NCAA Championship game between Russell’s University of San Francisco team and the La Salle Explorers.

She purchased the video, and at his birthday celebration, they rewatched the game. Russell became 21 again, relaying the scouting report to his wife and breaking down the Explorers’ personnel. He remembered each play in vivid detail as if it were yesterday, not six decades prior.

That game wasn’t the only one Russell could remember, though. He knew virtually every detail, every outcome, every missed call throughout his illustrious career.

Russell had what’s commonly known as Hyperthymesia, the rare ability to recall past experiences in great detail.

The causes of HSAM are currently unknown, but some theories suggest that it’s biological, genetic or psychological in origin.

Why does it seem so many elite athletes and leaders have this? Why can some remember just about everything that transpired and others can’t?

We typically don’t associate memory with leadership; yet, it’s a common thread that can separate the great from the good. Leaders who can remember names are often credited for making their organizations develop family atmospheres. This seemingly little touch can foster a truly special bond.

What most leaders fail to do is to connect — and that can cause memory lapses. In his book "Everyone Communicates, Few Connect," leadership guru John Maxwell refers to connecting as "the ability to identify with people and relate to them in a way that increases your influence with them."

Maxwell believes remembering names has nothing to do with improving memory but rather improving connection. He believes that connection is the ability to identify with people and relate to them in a way that increases our influence.

Russell was connected to his work, which made him remember everything about it.

But are we completely connected?

The next time we can’t remember a co-worker’s name, don’t reach for more Prevagen; pay closer attention and try to connect. Be present and invest in the moment.

It often pays major dividends down the road.