From Guinness World Records to Inspiring Others: Sancy Suraj’s Story as a Motivational Speaker


Sancy Suraj is a well-known name in the field of memory training and motivational speaking. As the CEO of Knowles Training Institute, The Umonics Method, and Pinnacle Minds, Sancy has a wealth of experience in helping people to develop their memory and reach their full potential. He is also a world record holder, having set a Guinness World Record for the longest colour sequence memorized and six Singapore book of records, all in memorization feats. With a career spanning over a decade, Sancy has taught over 10,000 people worldwide and is a sought-after keynote speaker.

Can you tell us about your journey from setting world records in memorization to becoming a motivational speaker?

Certainly, I would be happy to share my journey from setting world records in memorization to becoming a motivational speaker. My journey began when I discovered my passion for memory techniques and started training myself to improve my memory skills. Over time, I began participating in memory competitions and soon became one of the best memory athletes in the world, achieving several Guinness World Records and Singapore Book of Records.

As I continued to compete and train in memory techniques, I realized that the skills I had developed could be used to help others. I began to teach memory techniques to others, conducting workshops and training sessions to help people improve their memory skills. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for inspiring and motivating others, and I decided to pursue a career as a motivational speaker.

As a motivational speaker, I draw on my experiences as a memory athlete to share the lessons I have learned about goal-setting, perseverance, and the power of the mind. I believe that everyone has the ability to improve their memory and achieve their goals if they are willing to put in the effort and use the right techniques. Through my speaking engagements and workshops, I aim to inspire and empower people to achieve their full potential.

Overall, my journey from setting world records in memorization to becoming a motivational speaker has been a natural progression of my passion for memory techniques and my desire to help others. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to share my story and inspire others, and I look forward to continuing to do so in the future.

How do you use your experiences in memorization to inspire others to achieve their own goals?

As a motivational speaker, I believe that my experiences in memorization can be used to inspire others to achieve their own goals. One of the key lessons I have learned from my experiences is the importance of setting clear and specific goals. In memorization competitions, I always set specific targets for the number of items I wanted to memorize, and I believe that this approach can be applied to any area of life. By setting clear goals, people can focus their efforts and track their progress, which can help to motivate them and keep them on track.

Another lesson I have learned from my experiences in memorization is the importance of perseverance. Memorization can be a challenging and frustrating process, and it requires a lot of dedication and practice to become proficient. However, with consistent effort and persistence, anyone can improve their memory skills and achieve their goals. I believe that this lesson can be applied to any area of life, whether it is in personal relationships, academic pursuits, or professional endeavors.

Finally, I believe that my experiences in memorization can inspire others to develop a growth mindset. One of the key principles of memorization is that the brain is capable of continually learning and growing, and that anyone can improve their memory skills with practice and training. This same principle can be applied to other areas of life, where people can learn to adopt a growth mindset and believe in their ability to learn and grow.

In summary, my experiences in memorization have taught me valuable lessons about goal-setting, perseverance, and growth mindset. By sharing these lessons with others, I hope to inspire and motivate them to achieve their own goals and reach their full potential.

Can you share some of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career as a motivational speaker?

Certainly, I would be happy to share some of the most important lessons I’ve learned throughout my career as a motivational speaker. One of the most important lessons is the power of connection. As a speaker, I have learned that connecting with the audience is critical to delivering an impactful message. By building a connection, I can create a sense of trust and engagement, which can help to make my message more memorable and inspiring.

Another important lesson I have learned is the importance of authenticity. As a speaker, it is essential to be true to yourself and your message. By speaking from the heart and sharing personal stories and experiences, I have found that I can connect with the audience on a deeper level and create a more meaningful impact. Authenticity also means being honest and transparent about your own challenges and failures, which can make your message more relatable and inspiring.

A third lesson I have learned is the importance of preparation. Although spontaneity can be valuable in some situations, I have found that preparing thoroughly for my speeches and workshops has been critical to my success. By researching the audience, anticipating potential questions or objections, and practicing my delivery, I can ensure that my message is clear, engaging, and effective.

Finally, I have learned the importance of continuous learning and improvement. As a speaker, it is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, research, and best practices in your field. By attending conferences, workshops, and other learning opportunities, I can stay informed and inspired, which can help me to deliver better speeches and workshops to my clients.

In summary, my career as a motivational speaker has taught me valuable lessons about the power of connection, authenticity, preparation, and continuous learning. By applying these lessons, I strive to inspire and empower my audiences to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

“Connecting with the audience, speaking from the heart, preparing thoroughly, and continuously learning are the four cornerstones of delivering an impactful message as a motivational speaker.”

How do you keep yourself motivated and inspired to continue pursuing your own goals?

As a motivational speaker, I believe that staying motivated and inspired is critical to achieving my own goals and helping others to achieve theirs. One of the key ways I stay motivated is by setting clear and specific goals. By setting targets for what I want to achieve and breaking those targets down into manageable steps, I can maintain focus and motivation. I also regularly review my progress and adjust my approach as needed, which helps me to stay on track and make progress toward my goals.

Another way I stay motivated is by cultivating a growth mindset. This means that I view challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth, rather than as failures. By adopting this perspective, I can approach obstacles with a sense of curiosity and determination, which helps me to stay motivated and inspired.

I also stay motivated by seeking out inspiration and learning from others. This includes reading books, attending workshops and conferences, and connecting with other professionals in my field. By staying informed and inspired, I can continue to develop my own skills and knowledge, which helps me to better serve my clients and stay motivated in my own pursuits.

Finally, I stay motivated by taking care of myself both physically and mentally. This includes regular exercise, healthy eating, and engaging in activities that bring me joy and fulfillment. By prioritizing self-care, I can maintain a positive mindset and high energy levels, which helps me to stay motivated and focused on my goals.

In summary, I stay motivated and inspired by setting clear goals, cultivating a growth mindset, seeking out inspiration from others, and prioritizing self-care. These strategies help me to stay focused and motivated in my own pursuits, and enable me to better serve my clients and inspire others to achieve their own goals.

Can you share some of the most memorable experiences you’ve had working with clients as a motivational speaker?

Certainly, I would be happy to share some of the most memorable experiences I’ve had working with clients as a motivational speaker. One of the most memorable experiences was working with a group of young professionals who were struggling with burnout and stress. Through a series of workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions, I was able to help them develop strategies for managing stress and prioritizing self-care. It was incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact that my work had on their personal and professional lives.

Another memorable experience was working with a non-profit organization that was struggling with low morale and high turnover. Through a series of team-building workshops and leadership coaching sessions, I was able to help the organization identify areas for improvement and develop a plan for creating a more positive and supportive workplace culture. It was inspiring to see the team come together and work collaboratively to implement positive changes, and I was honored to have played a small role in their success.

A third memorable experience was working with a group of aspiring entrepreneurs who were looking to start their own businesses. Through a series of workshops and coaching sessions, I was able to help them develop a growth mindset and identify the skills and resources they needed to succeed. It was incredibly fulfilling to see them take bold steps toward their goals and pursue their dreams with confidence and enthusiasm.

In summary, working as a motivational speaker has given me the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients and help them achieve their personal and professional goals. Each experience has been unique and memorable in its own way, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have made a positive impact in the lives of others.

“Working as a motivational speaker has given me the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of coaching and training, and the immense satisfaction of helping individuals and organizations overcome challenges and achieve their goals.”

Sancy Suraj’s journey to becoming a motivational speaker started with his passion for memory training. He used his experiences in memorization to inspire others to achieve their own goals by showing them that with the right techniques and dedication, anything is possible. One of the most important lessons he has learned throughout his career is that success comes from hard work, perseverance, and a positive mindset. He also stressed the importance of setting realistic goals and taking small steps to achieve them.

Sancy Suraj has worked with a variety of clients over the years, and some of his most memorable experiences have been helping people overcome their fears and insecurities. He shared that he has often encountered individuals who felt stuck or discouraged in their personal or professional pursuits. His advice to them was to believe in themselves and stay focused on their goals. He also emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and seeking help when needed.

Sancy Suraj continues to develop and refine his skills as a motivational speaker by attending seminars and conferences, staying up-to-date with the latest research in his field, and seeking feedback from his clients. His goal for the future is to continue inspiring people to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives by using his expertise in memory training and motivational speaking.

What advice do you have for individuals who may feel stuck or discouraged in their own personal or professional pursuits?

If you’re feeling stuck or discouraged in your personal or professional pursuits, my advice to you would be to take a step back and assess your situation with a growth mindset. It’s important to recognize that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of the journey, and that every successful person has faced obstacles along the way.

One strategy that can be helpful is to focus on the process rather than the outcome. Instead of fixating on a specific goal or result, try to focus on the actions and behaviors that will help you get there. Break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps, and focus on making progress every day. Celebrate small wins along the way, and use them as motivation to keep going.

Another strategy is to seek out support and guidance from others. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues who can provide encouragement and advice. Consider working with a coach or mentor who can provide you with personalized guidance and accountability. Surround yourself with positive influences and seek out communities of people who share your interests and goals.

Finally, it’s important to remember that failure is not the end of the road. In fact, failure is often a necessary part of the learning process. Instead of being discouraged by setbacks, use them as opportunities to learn and grow. Analyze what went wrong and use that knowledge to make adjustments and try again.

In summary, feeling stuck or discouraged in your personal or professional pursuits is a natural part of the journey, but there are strategies you can use to overcome these challenges. Focus on the process, seek out support and guidance, and remember that failure is not the end of the road. With persistence and a growth mindset, you can achieve your goals and find success in your pursuits.

How do you balance your own personal goals and achievements with the goals and needs of your clients?

Balancing my own personal goals and achievements with the goals and needs of my clients is an important aspect of my work as a motivational speaker. It requires a great deal of empathy, listening skills, and a willingness to adapt and adjust my approach based on the unique needs of each client.

One strategy that I use is to set clear boundaries and priorities. I make sure to carve out time for my own personal goals and achievements, but I also prioritize the needs of my clients. I work closely with each client to understand their goals and needs, and I strive to develop a customized approach that is tailored to their specific situation.

Another strategy that can be helpful is to practice effective time management. By prioritizing my own personal goals and achievements, I am better able to manage my time and ensure that I am able to meet the needs of my clients. I use tools like calendars, to-do lists, and project management software to keep track of my schedule and stay organized.

Finally, it’s important to recognize that there will be times when balancing personal goals and client needs can be challenging. In these situations, it’s important to be flexible and adaptable. I remain open to feedback from my clients and am willing to adjust my approach as needed to ensure that I am meeting their needs while also pursuing my own personal goals and achievements.

In summary, balancing personal goals and client needs requires a combination of empathy, effective time management, and a willingness to adapt and adjust. By setting clear boundaries and priorities, practicing effective time management, and remaining flexible and adaptable, I am able to achieve success in both areas and provide the best possible service to my clients.

Can you tell us about a particularly challenging moment in your career as a motivational speaker, and how you overcame it?

As a motivational speaker, I have faced a number of challenges throughout my career. One particularly challenging moment that comes to mind was when I was asked to give a keynote speech at a major industry conference. I had spent weeks preparing my presentation and had rehearsed it countless times, but when I arrived at the venue on the day of the event, I realized that the technology I was counting on to deliver my presentation was not working properly.

At first, I felt a sense of panic and frustration. I had spent so much time preparing for this event, and I felt like all of my hard work was going to go to waste. However, I quickly realized that I had a choice to make – I could either let this setback defeat me, or I could find a way to overcome it and deliver a successful presentation.

To overcome the challenge, I took a deep breath and reminded myself of my purpose for being there. I was there to inspire and motivate the audience, and I knew that I could do that even without the visual aids I had planned to use. I quickly adapted my presentation on the fly, focusing on delivering an engaging and inspiring message that resonated with the audience.

While it was certainly a challenging moment, it was also a valuable learning experience for me. It taught me the importance of being adaptable and flexible in the face of unexpected challenges, and it reminded me of the power of staying focused on my purpose and my message even in difficult circumstances.

In the end, the presentation was a success, and I received positive feedback from many members of the audience. It was a reminder that even when things don’t go according to plan, it’s possible to overcome challenges and achieve success through a combination of resilience, adaptability, and a focus on the bigger picture.

How do you continue to develop and refine your own skills as a motivational speaker?

As a motivational speaker, I believe that it’s important to continually develop and refine my skills in order to deliver the best possible experience to my clients and audience members. Here are a few of the ways that I work to develop and refine my skills:

Continuous learning: I make a point of regularly attending workshops, seminars, and other events that focus on topics related to motivational speaking. By doing so, I am able to learn from other professionals in the industry and gain new insights and perspectives that help me to continually improve.

Feedback and evaluation: After every speaking engagement, I take the time to evaluate my performance and solicit feedback from my clients and audience members. This allows me to identify areas where I can improve and make adjustments for future engagements.

Practice and preparation: I believe that practice is essential for delivering a successful motivational speech, and I make a point of rehearsing my presentations regularly. This helps me to refine my delivery, identify areas where I may need to adjust my message or approach, and build my confidence as a speaker.

Networking and collaboration: I also believe that it’s important to connect with other professionals in the industry and collaborate with them whenever possible. By doing so, I am able to gain new insights and perspectives, learn from others’ experiences, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in the field.

Ultimately, I believe that the key to continuing to develop and refine my skills as a motivational speaker is to remain open to new ideas and perspectives, to seek out feedback and learning opportunities, and to never stop striving to improve and deliver the best possible experience for my clients and audience members.

Looking forward, what are your goals for the future of your work as a motivational speaker?

As a motivational speaker, my ultimate goal is to help as many people as possible achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives. To that end, I have a number of goals for the future of my work:

Expand my reach: One of my primary goals is to reach as many people as possible with my message of inspiration and empowerment. This includes expanding my speaking engagements to new audiences, such as corporations, schools, and community organizations, as well as developing new content and materials that can be shared with a wider audience.

Develop new programs and offerings: I am always looking for new ways to help my clients and audience members achieve their goals, and I plan to continue developing new programs and offerings that address a variety of needs and challenges. This may include online courses, coaching programs, and other resources that can be accessed remotely.

Collaborate with other professionals: I believe that collaboration is key to achieving success in any field, and I plan to continue working with other professionals in the industry to develop new ideas and approaches to motivational speaking.

Focus on innovation and experimentation: Finally, I plan to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field of motivational speaking by experimenting with new techniques, approaches, and technologies. This includes incorporating cutting-edge research on motivation, neuroscience, and psychology into my work, as well as exploring new formats and platforms for delivering my message.

Ultimately, my goal is to help people overcome their challenges, find their passion and purpose, and achieve their full potential. I am committed to continually refining my skills and developing new strategies to help my clients and audience members achieve their goals, and I look forward to continuing to grow and evolve in my work as a motivational speaker.

“My goal as a motivational speaker is to empower and inspire individuals to achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives, and I plan to achieve this by expanding my reach, developing new programs, collaborating with others, and embracing innovation and experimentation.”

Sancy Suraj’s journey from setting world records in memorization to becoming a motivational speaker is a testament to his dedication and passion for helping people achieve their goals. His experiences in memory training have inspired and motivated thousands of people worldwide. Through his work as a keynote speaker, Sancy Suraj continues to help individuals overcome their fears and insecurities and reach their full potential. With his unique blend of expertise in memory training and motivational speaking, Sancy Suraj is sure to continue making a positive impact on the lives of those he works with.