Vocabulary is easier to remember when it is connected to something you want to say. Instead of memorizing random lists, start with topics you use often in English.
For example, if you want to talk about your daily routine, learn verbs like despertarse, trabajar, comer, and descansar. Add nouns and phrases that naturally appear with those verbs.
The next step is context. A word by itself is fragile. A word inside a sentence is easier to keep. Write short examples like Trabajo por la mañana or Descanso después de comer.
Review should be active. Cover the Spanish word and try to remember it from the English meaning. Then reverse the direction. Finally, use the word in a new sentence.
Useful vocabulary is vocabulary you can reuse. Choose words that belong to your life, your interests, and the conversations you want to have.