What makes some moments stick in our minds while others fade away? Dr. Charan Ranganath, a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of California, Davis, has spent over 25 years uncovering the mysteries of memory.
As the director of the Dynamic Memory Lab, he studies how our brains remember past events using advanced brain imaging techniques, computational modeling, and research with individuals who have memory disorders. His book, Why We Remember, provides a compelling look at how memory works and how it can enhance our well-being.
Dr. Ranganath’s insights offer a fresh perspective on how understanding memory science can help us combat burnout, boost productivity, and foster greater happiness. Here are some practical takeaways from our conversation, for those looking to optimize their personal and professional lives.
For the full interview, listen to our ‘Evolving with Gratitude’ podcast episode. Also available on your favorite podcast platform.
Memory’s Purpose: A Tool, Not a Burden
“When I travel, I don’t take every possession I own; I anticipate what I’ll need and pack accordingly,” Dr. Ranganath explained. This analogy highlights a critical aspect of memory: our brains prioritize what’s meaningful over everything else.
Memory is a resource. It’s a co-pilot, but you don’t want it in the driver’s seat.
–Charan Ranganath
This selective nature of memory allows us to adapt and thrive without being overwhelmed by unnecessary information. Instead of viewing memory as a storage system, Dr. Ranganath encourages us to see it as an active tool for understanding the past, navigating the present, and planning for the future. As he put it, “ We need to be mindful of what memories we create and what memories we pull up in the moment, because memory is a resource. It’s a co-pilot, but you don’t want it in the driver’s seat”
“Multitasking”: A Hidden Culprit of Stress
Burnout and stress often stem from our attempts to do too much at once. Dr. Ranganath shed light on why multitasking—or more accurately, task switching—is so detrimental. “Switching attention has a cost,” he noted. Each time we move from one task to another, we impose cognitive penalties that fragment our focus and create mental fatigue.
Switching attention has a cost.
–Charan Ranganath
Instead of fostering productivity, multitasking scatters our attention, leaving us with incomplete and disconnected memories. “Rather than having one cohesive memory, we have a whole lot of little bits and pieces that are actually fighting with each other,” he explained.
To counteract this, focus on single-tasking. I suggest using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique—25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break—as it aligns with Dr. Ranganath’s emphasis on minimizing cognitive load to improve memory retention. These strategies not only boost productivity but also reduce the mental strain that contributes to burnout.
Embracing the Power of Mistakes
One of the most surprising insights from memory science is the value of error-driven learning. Dr. Ranganath explained, “If you struggle to pull up a memory and eventually get the right answer, or if you struggle to pull up a memory and you don’t get the right answer, and then [you are given the right answer], what happens is you have an opportunity for your brain to reorganize so that you can be optimized to produce the right answer the next time around.”
Being wrong is an opportunity for learning.
–Charan Ranganath
“If you’re always doing things perfectly, you’re not really learning all that much,” he emphasized, “ being wrong is an opportunity for learning”. By viewing mistakes as opportunities to grow, we can reframe challenges as stepping stones to mastery, both in our personal and professional lives.
Gratitude: A Pathway to Resilience
Dr. Ranganath highlighted the transformative impact of gratitude on memory and emotional well-being. “Remembering specific positive events can change your mindset,” he said. Reflecting on small, joyful moments—a kind email, a perfectly brewed cup of coffee—can shift your perspective and elevate your mood.
Remembering specific positive events can change your mindset.
–Charan Ranganath
This practice isn’t just about recalling happy times. It’s about building momentum. “Once you’re in a grateful mindset, other positive memories emerge,” he explained. This snowball effect can foster resilience, helping us navigate stress and setbacks with greater ease.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to reflect on the past day. Identify small wins or moments of kindness, no matter how minor they seem. This simple exercise can help reset your emotional state and cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude and joy.
Memory Hygiene: Declutter Your Mind
Much like physical clutter can overwhelm a space, mental clutter—caused by constant distractions—can overload our brains. Dr. Ranganath emphasized the importance of “memory hygiene”: minimizing interruptions and creating intentional habits that support focus and clarity.
Start by identifying your biggest sources of distraction. Is it incessant email notifications, social media, or an overflowing to-do list? Implement boundaries, such as designated times to check email or turning off notifications during deep work sessions. These small adjustments can help clear mental clutter, allowing you to engage more fully in the tasks that matter most.
A Call to Action
Understanding memory science offers powerful tools to improve our lives. By embracing single-tasking, reframing mistakes as learning opportunities, and nurturing gratitude, we can combat stress, boost productivity, and cultivate happiness. These strategies aren’t just about remembering more—they’re about living more fully.
Reflect on your habits and try out one strategy today. What is one small action you can take to make a meaningful difference in your focus, resilience, and well-being?
In Bold Gratitude,
Lainie Rowell
Connect with and learn from Charan Ranganath
Website: CharanRanganath.com
Book: Why We Remember: Unlocking Memory’s Power to Hold on to What Matters
