Nostalgia: a Healthy Indulgence

An article in the July/August, 2010 edition of Scientific American Mind reverses the idea that nostalgia is a weakness.  To the contrary, a 2006 study links it to psychological well-being.  Derived from the Greek words for "return" and "pain", nostalgia can actually improve people's moods and sense of well being.  Study participants who recalled vivid, complex memories reported a strong sense of social competence (openness with others about feelings; ability to give emotional support to friends; adeptness at forming relationships). As teams are strengthened by a history of overcoming obstacles, it may be a form of organizational nostalgia.  "To be able to look back on one's past life with satisfaction is to live twice" -- First century Roman poet Marcus Valerius Martial.