Memory: The key to unlocking the future

We often think of memory as something tied to the past—a record of experiences, lessons learned, and moments we cherish. But memory isn’t just a tool for nostalgia; it’s the foundation for how we navigate the future.

This really hit home for me when I read Margaret Heffernan’s piece about Professor Eleanor Maguire’s groundbreaking research. She revealed that memory isn’t just about looking back—it’s about looking forward. Maguire’s "Scene Construction Theory" showed that the hippocampus, the brain’s memory centre, doesn’t just store past events; it helps us imagine future possibilities. When we plan, strategize, or set goals, we rely on memory to construct mental simulations of what’s ahead.

Take a racing circuit I’ve driven before. As I approach, I don’t just remember the track—I anticipate what’s coming. My memory reminds me which corners demand extra attention and how past battles with competitors played out. Those experiences shape my decisions, helping me adapt my strategy and build confidence.

Without memory, we wouldn’t just forget our past—we’d struggle to shape our future. Our ability to envision tomorrow depends on how well we retain and structure yesterday’s experiences.

But what is happening today is we are not allowing our brains to easily retain memories. We create distractions, and don’t always take important mental breaks, so that our brain can retain information easily.

Whether you’re a racing driver or a leader, honing your memory sharpens foresight, creativity, and decision-making—equipping you for the challenges and opportunities ahead. I encourage you to practice the skill of retaining information. It can be through doing a crossword puzzle, writing down reflections about a day’s work, or even relying on a good old fashioned map to navigate instead of using GPS. Simple activities yet so vital for our long term survival.