We tend to think of memory as a useful cognitive ability. It helps us get things done, helps us keep track of our meetings, and helps us from having too many sticky note reminders on our desks. Most of us are less familiar with how memory affects our emotions. Memory, it turns out, is just as important for our emotional lives as it is for other cognitive processes.
Below I highlight 4 memory-emotion links that affect our emotional well-being.
(Note: The images below are affiliate links)
Below I highlight 4 memory-emotion links that affect our emotional well-being.
(Note: The images below are affiliate links)
1.) Memory for positive experiences
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Everyone has both positive and negative experiences. We know that engaging in practices such as savoring - or mentally holding onto and enjoying an experience completely - is related to greater well-being. To come back to and savor a positive experience, we have to store that experience in our long-term memory for later. When we have strong positive memories, it is easier to recall them, pull them into our consciousness, and relive them. Without this ability, it's more difficult for us to easily recall and savor positive events.
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2.) Memory of positive words
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We know that when we have difficulties with memory, we can forget the words we want to use. When have strong memories for an abundance of positive words, these words are more easily accessible and therefore easier to use in our daily lives. Research shows that accessibility of positive words is related to better well-being (namely, lower anxiety). By enhancing the collection of positive words in our long-term memory, we increase how automatic it is for us to use these words in daily life. As a result, we can experience boosts in well-being.
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3.) Memory for names
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As someone who admittedly has a terrible memory, I always feel terrible when I forget someone's name. It's stressful for me and potentially hurtful to the other person that I am unable to remember their name. By increasing memory, we can more easily forge a bond with new people. Anyone in sales can tell you that remembering someone's name helps build better relationships right from the start.
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4.) Memory for social interactions
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Every now and then I forget that I've scheduled lunch with a friend. This may not hurt our relationship if it only happens once. But what do you think happens when someone is constantly forgetting that they've agreed to spend time with you? We can't help but feel rejected, and we may begin to feel less connection with the other person. By strengthening your memory, you can help prevent situations where you inadvertently forget about the people you care about.
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In sum, memory is not only useful for finding your car keys. By focusing on building stronger memory-emotion links, you can enhance your personal and relationship well-being.