Forgetting is a feature.

As a designer, I've come to appreciate the nuances of forgetfulness. It's more than just a lapse; it's a feature in its own right. I often forget, and it can be incredibly useful. There's no need to store every detail in my memory. This selective retention is not a flaw but a strategic advantage.

Evolution and biology have ingrained in us the ability to discern between memorable and forgettable. In the realm of unlimited memory, like in digital systems, everything is retained. But for me, focusing on the brain's approach to forgetting - letting go of trivial details - leaves room for a curated collection of crucial information.

This clarity, this ability to filter and focus, is invaluable, especially in user experience design. I wonder if I'm justifying my own forgetfulness, but in my field, forgetting isn't an oversight; it's an intentional aspect of the design process. It creates streamlined and relevant experiences without unnecessary clutter.

Steve Berry
Principal, Thought Merchants