Memory Lane

When I was in medical school, I learned how every time you recalled a memory, it was never exactly the same as the first time. This is because as you age, your brain's connections alter the way in which a moment is remembered. It's like a story constantly being edited each time it is retold. The editor is a reflection of who you are at the time of recollection. Recognizing that each memory I had would forever be altered in the future made me appreciate living in the moment that much more.

With a new year approaching, everyone is always talking about creating a "new you." I understand wanting to reset your goals and intentions. However, instead of focusing on re-creating yourself or looking forward, I'd love for you to stop and take a second to be in the present, look at who you are and where you are right now. Reflect on how you got to this point.

As Maya Angelou stated: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." This isn't just an observation - there is a biological reason for why this is true given the overlap between emotions and memory as organized in your brain (more specifically the limbic system).

I want you to appreciate those around you that have helped you get to where you are right now. How did they make you feel and how did you make others feel? Write it down in a journal or maybe even your own blog post because these memories will change but how the experiences have changed you and those around you will not.

For me, 2018 was 365 days of connections. From new people, to new places and opportunities, this year has forged a series of events that have made me value time spent with friends and family. My goals for this coming year are to build on these connections, live authentically, and focus on the present, not to live in the future or get caught up in the past.

As we wave farewell to 2018, keep in mind that we are also saying goodbye to these versions of our memories and in a way these versions of ourselves. Thus, you don't need to create a "new you" for 2019 when you are already a newer and truer version of yourself than you were moments ago.