
How Rituals and Habits Make Life Better | Michael Norton
Good Life Project
The power of savoring and memory
Savoring simple moments, such as clinking glasses before a drink, can enhance the depth of human connections. This act encourages people to pause and acknowledge their shared presence, fostering a sense of togetherness that transcends routine interactions. Engaging in brief savoring rituals adds significance to gatherings and may deepen the emotional experience associated with the moment. While specific research on memory retention related to savoring rituals is lacking, related studies reveal that people often find unexpected interest in mundane experiences over anticipated ones. For example, moments that seem ordinary but are given attention can leave a more lasting impression, underscoring the idea that the richness of shared experiences lies not just in their significance but also in the act of savoring them momentarily.