The Art of Letting Go: Why Forgetting Is Just as Important as Remembering

How Smart Forgetting Makes Room for What Matters

Do you feel weighed down by clutter—whether it’s overflowing closets, a bursting inbox, or too many apps on your phone? The secret to a lighter, more focused life may not be holding on, but letting go. 'Algorithms to Live By' reveals that both computers and humans thrive when they manage memory wisely. The Least Recently Used (LRU) rule is a simple yet powerful strategy: if you haven’t used something in a while, it’s probably safe to let it go.

Think of your closet. If a shirt hasn’t been worn in a year, chances are you won’t miss it. Computers use the same logic to manage memory, constantly clearing out old files to make room for new ones. The key insight? No algorithm can predict the future perfectly. Instead, we make our best guesses based on the past, and trust that what’s truly important will return when needed.

This cycle of renewal isn’t just practical—it’s liberating. By clearing away the old, we create space for growth, creativity, and peace of mind. Whether it’s digital files, physical possessions, or even outdated beliefs, letting go is an act of self-care and wisdom.

So the next time you hesitate to delete an old file or donate an unused item, remember: smart forgetting is the foundation of a focused, joyful life.