The Purpose of Memory: Lessons from the Past, Guidance for the Future

Jordan Peterson says, “People think the purpose of memory is to remember the past.

That’s not the purpose of memory.

The purpose of memory is to extract out from the past lessons to structure the future. So you are done with a memory when you have extracted out the information that you can use to guide yourself properly into the future. When done, the negative emotion associated with that memory will disappear.”

We often associate memory with recollection and remembrance of past events don’r we? However,  Peterson challenges this conventional notion of memory. He argues that the purpose of memory extends far beyond mere reminiscence. According to him, the true purpose of memory is to extract valuable lessons from the past, enabling us to structure a more fulfilling future.

Let me puzzle this out.

Extracting Lessons from the Past:

Memory serves as an invaluable tool for learning from our experiences. As we reflect on past events, we can extract valuable information and insights that allow us to make better decisions in the future. By analyzing our successes and failures, we gain wisdom and understanding that can guide our actions towards achieving our goals. For example, a person who has experienced a failed business venture can learn from their mistakes, adapt their strategies, and approach future endeavors with a more informed perspective.

Structuring the Future:

Once we have extracted the necessary lessons from our memories, we can use this newfound knowledge to structure a more fulfilling future. Armed with insights gained from past experiences, we can make informed choices and set achievable goals. By leveraging our memory, we can consciously shape our actions and behaviors to align with our aspirations. This process of intentional decision-making empowers us to create a future that is aligned with our values, desires, and aspirations.

The Disappearance of Negative Emotions:

When we have effectively utilized our memories to extract valuable lessons, Peterson suggests that the negative emotions associated with those memories will dissipate. This concept is rooted in the idea that negative emotions are often tied to unresolved issues or unlearned lessons. By actively engaging with our memories and extracting the information we need, we gain a sense of closure and resolution, freeing us from the emotional weight of those experiences. This process allows us to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and emotional well-being.

Applying this Concept:

1. Reflect on Past Experiences: Take time to reflect on significant events or experiences from your past. Identify the lessons learned from each experience and consider how they can inform your decision-making in the present and future.

2. Embrace Growth Mindset: Adopt a growth mindset that views challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth. Instead of dwelling on past failures, extract the lessons from those experiences and use them to propel yourself forward.

3. Set Goals: Use the insights gained from your memories to set meaningful and achievable goals. By aligning your goals with your values and aspirations, you can create a roadmap for a purposeful and fulfilling future.

4. Practice Forgiveness: Letting go of negative emotions associated with past memories often requires forgiveness. Forgiving yourself and others for past mistakes or hurts, allows you to move forward.

In his letter to the Philippians, specifically in chapter 3 verses 13-14, Paul shares his mindset and approach towards his past and future:

"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:13-14, NIV)

In these verses, Paul acknowledges that he has a past, which includes his previous life as a persecutor of Christians. However, he does not dwell on his past mistakes or achievements. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of moving forward and focusing on the future. Paul's goal is to pursue the prize that God has set before him and to live out his calling in Christ Jesus.

Paul's ability to extract lessons from his past is evident throughout his writings. In his letters to various churches, he often reflects on his own transformation and the lessons he learned from his encounters with Christ. For example, in his letter to Timothy, Paul writes about how he was once a blasphemer, persecutor, and violent man, but he received mercy and grace from God (1 Timothy 1:12-16). Paul recognizes the transformative power of his past experiences and uses them to guide his present actions and future endeavors.

Furthermore, Paul's determination to press on and strive toward the future is seen in his relentless dedication to spreading the message of Christ. Despite facing numerous challenges, including imprisonment, persecution, and hardship, Paul remained steadfast in his mission. He continually adapted his strategies, learned from his experiences, and set his sights on the ultimate goal of glorifying God and sharing the gospel.

So, the apostle Paul serves as a biblical example of someone who understood the purpose of memory and applied it to his life. Through his writings and actions, Paul demonstrated the significance of extracting lessons from the past and structuring the future according to God's calling. His example encourages us to embrace a forward-focused mindset, learn from our past experiences, and press on towards the goals and purposes set before us.