I have three steps: easy to say, but hard to do. That is 1) write down the word- really write it down, don't just try to remember it. 2) try to read as many examples where the word is in use 3) Once committed to memory, try to use it as often as you can.
You can even try to remember several words, or sentences, at the same time. Unfortunately, it is a bit like saying "love is simple". The reality is, its really hard to do.
On a similar note, if you don't like the language, you most likely wouldn't remember it as all.