Many of us enjoy writing in a diary, reading autobiographies, or nostalgically reflecting with others about past times. Why is remembering our past so important? Are there downsides? And what can we do if dwelling on the past bothers us? Memories Make Us Human Over several decades, researchers have shown that remembering your past is fundamental to being human, and has four important roles. 1. Memories help form our identity Our memories give us a sense of personal continuity—a consistent sense of self moving through time. They provide important details of who we are and who we would like to be. 2. Memories help us solve problems Memories offer us potential solutions to current problems and help guide and direct us when solving them. 3. Memories make us social Personal memories are essential for social interactions. Being able to recall personal memories provides important material when making new friends, forming new …