Memory & retrieval · Memory Bias · Entry 177
Euphoric Recall – when the past feels better than it really was
Do you remember college as the best time of your life but forget the sleepless nights before exams? That’s Euphoric Recall – the tendency to remember the past through rose-colored glasses while ignoring the negatives.
Where it can show up
- Relationships – your ex seems perfect, but you forget why you broke up.
- Work & career – your old job feels easier and more comfortable, but you forget the stress and overwork.
- Habits & addictions – people recall ‘fun parties’ but overlook hangovers and consequences.
A practical countermeasure
- Remind yourself of reality – the past wasn’t perfect, or you wouldn’t have moved on.
- Write down the negatives – journals or notes help keep a balanced perspective.
- Judge the past honestly – if it was so great, would you really want to go back?