How to create happy memories and not forget them: tips to become a ‘memory architect’
- Happiness expert Meik Wiking says events that combine multiple sensory stimuli create detailed memories that have a strong impact when recalled
- One of his biggest pieces of advice on memory-making is to pay attention – which often means staying away from digital devices
Meik Wiking has built an international reputation as an expert on happiness. In troubling times such as these, he says it is natural to look back and find comfort in remembering happier moments.
With economies in tatters and many people still subject to social distancing measures to stop the coronavirus’ spread, Wiking wants to boost people’s mental health by helping them create new memories that are positive, lasting and inspiring.
“There are things we can do to influence what we, our friends and our families remember in the future,” he says.
From Denmark, Wiking is the CEO of The Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen and author of The New York Times bestsellers The Little Book of Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga, a Danish word meaning a sense of comfort, togetherness and well-being), and The Little Book of Lykke (pronounced luu-kah, meaning happiness).
Understanding happiness is Wiking’s lifelong goal. A sought-after speaker, he travels the world to discuss things people can do in their day-to-day life to make them happier.