Entrepreneurial Insights from Memory Champion Sancy Suraj


Sancy Suraj is a name synonymous with exceptional memory and entrepreneurial success. He is a memory champion, who has won multiple championships globally, and an entrepreneur, who has founded and runs multiple successful businesses. His remarkable feats in both these fields have earned him international recognition and made him an inspiration to many.

In this article, we delve into the mind of Sancy Suraj to gain insights into his journey as an entrepreneur, his passion for memory training, and his tips for success. We ask him ten questions, each aimed at providing valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and memory enthusiasts. Sancy Suraj’s answers are full of wisdom and practical advice, and we are confident that readers will find them both inspiring and instructive.

Can you tell us about your journey as an entrepreneur and how you started your companies?

My journey as an entrepreneur started at a young age when I first discovered my passion for memory training. After achieving several world records in memory feats, I realized that there was a demand for memory training and coaching. With this in mind, I founded my first company, Pinnacle Minds, in 2011, with the goal of providing memory training and coaching services to individuals and corporations.

Through Pinnacle Minds, I was able to help thousands of people improve their memory and learning skills. As the company grew, I continued to develop my expertise in memory and learning, and in 2016, I founded the Knowles Training Institute, which focuses on providing corporate training and consulting services to businesses and organizations. This allowed me to expand my reach and help even more people improve their learning and memory capabilities.

In addition to Pinnacle Minds and Knowles Training Institute, I also founded The Umonics Method in 2020, which is a learning and memory program designed specifically for students. With this program, I aim to help students of all ages and backgrounds develop the necessary skills to succeed in school and beyond.

Overall, my journey as an entrepreneur has been driven by my passion for memory training and my desire to help others improve their learning and memory capabilities. I believe that everyone has the potential to improve their memory and learning abilities, and through my companies, I am committed to helping people achieve their goals and reach their full potential

How did you become interested in memory training, and what led you to pursue memorization feats?

My interest in memory training began at a young age, when I was struggling with my own memory and learning abilities. As a student, I often found it difficult to retain information and struggled to keep up with my studies. This frustration led me to research memory improvement techniques, and I soon discovered the world of memory sports and memorization feats.

I was immediately fascinated by the incredible feats of memory athletes, and I began to practice and develop my own memory skills. With dedicated practice and training, I was able to achieve my first memory record in 2009, when I memorized the order of a deck of cards in under 30 seconds. This initial success motivated me to continue pursuing memorization feats, and I soon began to break records and achieve world-class performances in memory sports competitions.

Throughout my journey as a memory athlete, I became increasingly interested in memory training and coaching. I realized that the same techniques that had helped me achieve success in memory sports could also be applied to everyday life and learning. This led me to start teaching others how to improve their memory and learning abilities, which ultimately led to the founding of my first company, Pinnacle Minds.

Today, memory training and coaching remains a passion of mine, and I am constantly working to develop new techniques and strategies to help others improve their memory and learning abilities. I believe that everyone has the potential to improve their memory, and I am committed to helping others unlock their full potential through my companies and my work as a memory athlete and trainer.

What advice do you have for individuals looking to improve their memory skills?

First and foremost, I would advise individuals looking to improve their memory skills to practice regularly. Like any other skill, memory requires consistent effort and training in order to improve. This can be as simple as incorporating memory exercises into your daily routine, such as memorizing a grocery list or the names of people you meet.

Another important piece of advice is to develop a strong memory strategy. There are many different memory techniques and strategies that can be used to improve memory, such as the Method of Loci, the Link Method, and the Memory Palace technique. It’s important to find a strategy that works for you and to practice it regularly in order to see improvement.

In addition to practice and strategy, it’s also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Studies have shown that exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep can all have a positive impact on memory and cognitive function. Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can help improve your memory and overall brain health.

Finally, I would encourage individuals to stay curious and continue to learn. Engaging in new experiences and learning new information can help stimulate the brain and improve memory function. Whether it’s taking up a new hobby or learning a new language, exposing yourself to new experiences and knowledge can have a positive impact on your memory skills.

Overall, improving memory skills takes effort and dedication, but with regular practice, strategy development, healthy habits, and a thirst for knowledge, anyone can improve their memory and cognitive abilities.

“Improving memory is like building a muscle – it takes consistent practice and a variety of exercises to see real growth. By developing strong memory strategies, maintaining healthy habits, and continuing to learn, individuals can unlock the full potential of their minds and improve their memory skills in the long run.”

Can you share some specific examples of how memory training has helped you in your personal or professional life?

Memory training has had a profound impact on both my personal and professional life. In my personal life, memory training has allowed me to better remember important details, such as names, faces, and personal anecdotes. This has helped me to build stronger relationships with friends and family, as I’m able to recall important details about their lives and experiences.

Memory training has also helped me in my professional life, particularly in my role as an entrepreneur and memory trainer. As a CEO and memory trainer, I often need to remember large amounts of information, such as names and contact information for clients and business partners, as well as details about various training programs and courses.

Thanks to my memory training, I’m able to quickly and accurately recall this information, which has helped me to build strong relationships with clients and business partners, as well as to develop effective training programs and courses. In addition, my memory training has helped me to stay organized and focused, which has been instrumental in managing multiple companies and initiatives simultaneously.

Beyond these specific examples, memory training has also had a more general impact on my overall cognitive abilities. By constantly challenging and training my memory, I’ve been able to improve my attention span, focus, and mental agility, all of which have been invaluable in both my personal and professional life.

Overall, memory training has been a transformative experience for me, and I’m grateful for the many ways in which it has improved my life and my ability to help others through my work as a memory athlete and trainer.

How do you balance running multiple companies and competing in memorization contests?

As an entrepreneur and memory athlete, finding the balance between running multiple companies and competing in memorization contests can be a challenging task. However, it’s a balance that I’ve learned to strike over the years through careful planning, organization, and time management.

One key strategy I use to balance my various responsibilities is to prioritize my time effectively. I carefully allocate my time between my various companies and my training, making sure to set aside dedicated time for both. This means setting clear goals and deadlines for each project or competition, and then working diligently to meet those goals.

Another important factor in balancing my responsibilities is delegation. I’ve learned to trust and rely on my team members and colleagues, delegating tasks and responsibilities as needed to ensure that everything is running smoothly across all of my companies. This allows me to focus more fully on my training and preparation for competitions, knowing that my businesses are in good hands.

In addition, I make sure to stay organized and focused, using tools like calendars, to-do lists, and time-tracking software to help me stay on top of my many responsibilities. This helps me to avoid getting overwhelmed and ensures that I’m able to give each of my companies and my training the attention and focus they deserve.

Finally, I make sure to take care of myself physically and mentally, ensuring that I’m getting enough rest, exercise, and relaxation time to keep my mind and body in top shape. This helps me to stay focused and energized, even when I’m juggling multiple projects and responsibilities.

Overall, finding the balance between running multiple companies and competing in memorization contests requires careful planning, delegation, organization, and self-care. By taking these steps, I’ve been able to successfully manage my many responsibilities and continue to excel both as an entrepreneur and a memory athlete.

“Balancing multiple responsibilities as an entrepreneur and memory athlete requires more than just time management. It also takes trust in your team, organization, and self-care. By prioritizing effectively, delegating tasks, staying organized, and taking care of yourself, you can successfully achieve your goals and excel in both arenas.”

Sancy Suraj’s entrepreneurial journey began with a deep interest in technology and innovation. As a child, he was fascinated by computers and gadgets and spent countless hours tinkering with them. He later honed his skills by pursuing a degree in computer science and founded his first company, which provided web and software development services.

Sancy Suraj’s passion for memory training began when he stumbled upon a book on memory techniques while browsing a library. Intrigued by the possibilities, he began practicing and soon discovered a talent for memorization feats. He went on to participate in memory championships and became a world-renowned memory champion, winning numerous titles.

When asked about advice for individuals looking to improve their memory skills, Sancy Suraj emphasized the importance of practice and consistency. He advised breaking down complex information into smaller, more manageable chunks and using visualizations and associations to aid memorization.

Sancy Suraj shared specific examples of how memory training has helped him in his personal and professional life, including remembering important details in meetings, speeches, and networking events. He also highlighted how his memory skills have helped him in his entrepreneurial ventures, such as recalling important client information and market trends.

Despite running multiple companies and competing in memorization contests, Sancy Suraj manages to balance both pursuits by prioritizing his time and setting clear goals. He stressed the importance of delegation, time management, and a supportive team to achieve success in both endeavors.

In discussing what sets successful entrepreneurs apart from those who struggle to build and grow their businesses, Sancy Suraj highlighted the importance of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to take risks. He emphasized the need to have a clear vision, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn from failures.

When faced with challenges, Sancy Suraj stays motivated by focusing on his long-term goals and seeking support from his team and mentors. He views obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow and uses them as motivation to push forward.

Looking to the future, Sancy Suraj sees the field of memory training evolving to include applications in various industries, such as education, healthcare, and finance. He believes that memory training can be a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their cognitive abilities and enhance their productivity.

What do you think sets successful entrepreneurs apart from those who struggle to build and grow their businesses?

In my experience as an entrepreneur, I believe that there are several key factors that set successful entrepreneurs apart from those who struggle to build and grow their businesses. These factors include mindset, perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to take risks.

First and foremost, successful entrepreneurs have a growth mindset. They see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, and they’re willing to take calculated risks to pursue their goals. They’re not afraid to fail, and they’re willing to pivot and adapt their strategies as needed to stay ahead of the curve.

Another key characteristic of successful entrepreneurs is perseverance. Building a business is not easy, and there will inevitably be setbacks and obstacles along the way. Successful entrepreneurs have the grit and determination to keep pushing forward, even in the face of adversity.

In addition, successful entrepreneurs are adaptable. They’re able to stay ahead of the curve, anticipating and responding to changes in their industries and markets. They’re not afraid to pivot their strategies or take bold steps to stay competitive and relevant.

Finally, successful entrepreneurs are willing to take risks. Building a successful business requires a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone, take calculated risks, and pursue new opportunities. They understand that there’s no reward without risk, and they’re willing to take on challenges that others might shy away from.

Overall, the key to building a successful business lies in having the right mindset, the perseverance to keep pushing forward, the adaptability to stay ahead of the curve, and the willingness to take risks. By embodying these characteristics, entrepreneurs can overcome obstacles, pursue their goals, and build thriving businesses that make a real impact in the world.

How do you stay motivated and overcome obstacles when faced with challenges in your entrepreneurial journey?

As an entrepreneur, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges and obstacles on my journey, but staying motivated and pushing through these obstacles has been key to my success. One of the ways I stay motivated is by keeping my ultimate goal in mind. I remind myself of why I started my businesses in the first place and the impact I want to make on the world. This helps me stay focused and motivated, even when faced with challenges.

Another way I stay motivated is by surrounding myself with a strong support system. This includes my team members, mentors, and other entrepreneurs who I can turn to for advice and support when I need it. Having a strong support system not only helps me stay motivated, but also provides me with the resources and guidance I need to overcome obstacles.

When faced with challenges, I approach them with a growth mindset. Rather than seeing challenges as roadblocks, I see them as opportunities to learn and grow. This perspective helps me stay positive and motivated, even when things get tough.

Finally, I prioritize self-care to ensure that I have the energy and resilience I need to overcome obstacles. This includes regular exercise, healthy eating, and taking breaks when needed to avoid burnout. By taking care of myself, I’m able to stay motivated and overcome challenges with a clear mind and focused energy.

In summary, staying motivated and overcoming obstacles as an entrepreneur requires a combination of mindset, support, perspective, and self-care. By keeping my ultimate goal in mind, surrounding myself with a strong support system, approaching challenges with a growth mindset, and prioritizing self-care, I’m able to stay motivated and push through even the toughest obstacles on my entrepreneurial journey.

How do you see the field of memory training evolving in the coming years, and what potential applications do you see for it in various industries?

The field of memory training has come a long way in recent years, and I believe that it will continue to evolve and grow in the coming years. One of the biggest changes that I see happening is the incorporation of technology in memory training. With the rise of digital tools and platforms, there is now an opportunity to create more engaging and interactive ways to train and improve memory skills. This could include things like mobile apps, virtual reality experiences, and gamified training programs.

Another trend that I see is the increasing interest in memory training outside of traditional areas such as competitive memorization or academic performance. As people become more aware of the potential benefits of memory training, I believe that we will see more applications of these techniques in fields such as business, medicine, and even everyday life. For example, memory training can be incredibly useful for professionals who need to memorize large amounts of information or for individuals looking to improve their cognitive function as they age.

Finally, I think that we will see more research being done in the field of memory training, which will help us to better understand how these techniques work and how they can be optimized for different applications. This research could lead to the development of more personalized memory training programs that take into account individual differences in learning style, cognitive abilities, and goals.

Overall, I am very excited about the future of memory training and the potential that it holds for helping people improve their cognitive function and achieve their goals. I believe that as more people become aware of the benefits of memory training, we will see a continued growth in interest and innovation in this field.

What are some key lessons you’ve learned in your career as an entrepreneur that you wish you had known earlier?

As an entrepreneur, I’ve learned many valuable lessons over the years. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance. Building and growing a business is not an easy task, and there are bound to be obstacles and setbacks along the way. It’s important to have the resilience and determination to push through these challenges and keep moving forward.

Another lesson I’ve learned is the importance of networking and building relationships. No entrepreneur can succeed on their own, and it’s important to have a strong network of contacts and supporters to help you along the way. This includes mentors, advisors, investors, and other entrepreneurs in your industry.

I’ve also learned the importance of continuous learning and improvement. As an entrepreneur, you need to be constantly adapting and evolving to stay ahead of the competition and keep up with changing market trends. This means investing in your own education and development, attending industry events and conferences, and seeking out new opportunities to learn and grow.

Finally, I’ve learned the importance of staying true to your vision and values. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day challenges of running a business and lose sight of your core values and purpose. But it’s important to stay grounded and focused on your long-term goals and the values that drive your business. This will help you make better decisions, build stronger relationships, and ultimately achieve greater success.

Overall, my experience as an entrepreneur has taught me many valuable lessons, and I’m grateful for the opportunities and challenges that have come my way. I hope that by sharing these lessons with others, I can help aspiring entrepreneurs achieve their own success and make a positive impact in the world.

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs who are just starting out and looking to build successful businesses?

For aspiring entrepreneurs who are just starting out and looking to build successful businesses, I have a few key pieces of advice. Firstly, it’s important to have a clear vision and purpose for your business. This means understanding your values and what you want to achieve, both personally and professionally. Your business should align with these values and serve a larger purpose beyond just making money.

Secondly, it’s crucial to focus on building a strong foundation. This means developing a solid business plan, understanding your market, and building a strong team. It’s important to take the time to do your research and make informed decisions, rather than rushing into things or relying on instinct alone.

Thirdly, don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. Entrepreneurship is inherently risky, but successful entrepreneurs are able to manage that risk by taking calculated steps and being adaptable. This means being open to new ideas, pivoting when necessary, and being willing to learn from failures and setbacks.

Finally, I would advise aspiring entrepreneurs to seek out mentors and build a strong network of support. Having the guidance and advice of more experienced entrepreneurs can be invaluable, and surrounding yourself with supportive people can help you stay motivated and inspired even during challenging times.

Overall, building a successful business takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt. But with a clear vision, a strong foundation, a willingness to take risks, and a supportive network, aspiring entrepreneurs can achieve their goals and build the businesses of their dreams.

“Building a successful business is a journey that requires careful planning, calculated risks, and unwavering commitment. By staying true to your values, focusing on a strong foundation, taking calculated steps, and surrounding yourself with supportive mentors and peers, you can navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and achieve your ultimate vision of success.”

Sancy Suraj’s entrepreneurial journey and memory feats are nothing short of remarkable. His insights and advice provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to build successful businesses or improve their memory skills. From the importance of practice and consistency to the need for resilience and adaptability, Sancy Suraj’s experiences demonstrate the qualities needed to achieve success in any field. We hope that readers find his story as inspiring and informative as we have.