Getting into the flow means immersing yourself so completely in an activity that time seems to disappear, distractions fade, and productivity soars.
Have you ever been so absorbed in something that hours passed in what felt like minutes? That’s the magic of getting into the flow.
This deep state of focus, allows you to perform at your best effortlessly. Mastering this can improve creativity, efficiency, and overall well-being.
Origin
The term “State of Flow” was coined by Hungarian psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi in the 1970s.
While studying human happiness and productivity, he observed that people often experienced a highly focused, optimal state of consciousness when fully immersed in activities that required skill and focus. He called this the “flow state,” referring to the seamless progression of thoughts and actions during these moments. People in this state often lose track of time, feel deeply involved, and experience a sense of control and satisfaction.
How The Flow State Feels
Flow is described as a balance between challenge and skill. If a task is too difficult, it causes anxiety, if it’s too easy, it leads to boredom. When challenges are just within reach but require full focus and effort, the flow state occurs. It is commonly experienced by athletes, artists, musicians, and professionals who are fully absorbed in their work.
Achieving The “Flow State”
To achieve flow, we must create an environment that allows for deep focus. This involves setting clear goals, minimising distractions, and engaging in activities that match our skill level with a meaningful challenge. Regular practice, mindfulness, and reducing interruptions (such as digital distractions) are crucial. Flow is most easily achieved when we are passionate about the task and can focus without external pressures.
Key Steps:
- Setting goals (remember to use SMART goals, Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound)
- Removing distractions (turn off notifications on digital devices, move to a location where you won’t be distracted)
- Ensure activities match your skill level (choose tasks that are neither too easy nor too difficult, allowing for growth without frustration)
- Make the challenge meaningful (choose tasks that align with your values and personal goals to maintain motivation)
Achieving flow is not only about improving productivity but also about increasing fulfilment and happiness. The more frequently we can enter this state, the greater our sense of purpose and engagement with life becomes.
Further Reading:
- When you’re procrastinating before starting. Learn how to overcome hesitation and take action, setting yourself up for deep focus and flow.
- When impostor syndrome is holding you back. Discover strategies to build confidence and silence self-doubt so you can fully engage in your work.
- When you need help to find happiness. Explore how boosting your brain’s natural “happy chemicals” can improve your mood and increase your chances of reaching a flow state.