Everyone has experienced the flow state – characterized by intense focus, optimal workload (neither overload nor boredom), and a loss of sense of time. The flow state is an experience where an engaging and enjoyable task captures your full attention. In this state, you lose track of your time and any thoughts unrelated to the specific task at hand. In a very intense flow state, I sometimes feel like I’m “walking half a meter above the ground” and “everything is possible.” It feels like I could continue the particular activity forever.
The concept of the flow state was first described by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. He described flow as an optimal state of consciousness, a “sweet spot,” where we are so deeply immersed in an activity that everything else seems to fade into the background.
While the flow state involves action, it is very rejuvenating and pleasant. During flow, the happiness hormones like dopamine and endorphins are released, making us feel freer, more optimistic, energetic, and purposeful.
Anyone can experience the flow state, and it can be encountered in any area of life – at work, writing, drawing, running, gardening, and more.
10 Signs You’re in a Flow State
- Complete focus on the specific activity.
Concentration is only on one activity, as multitasking is not possible in the flow state.
- Ideal challenge.
There is no feeling of overload and stress, but it does not feel boring.
- The activity has a specific goal (small or large) that your attention is focused on.
- Positive feedback or the “feeling that you are succeeding.”
- Personal control.
The activity or process is under your control. It is impossible to be in the flow if you feel that events or the environment are out of control.
- Loss of sense of time.
- Peace and harmony. You are focused on the task, but it does not overwhelm you, there is no stress.
- Intrinsic motivation. The activity or task captivates and motivates you, regardless of the outcome (e.g., running because you like to run, not only to win).
- Loss of self-awareness. The activity you are focused on is so engaging, and the focus is so intense that doubts or any lack of self-confidence disappear. You are not worried about potential failure or what others might think.
- Forgetting physical needs – for example, forgetting to eat or drink because the activity or task is so engaging.
Benefits of Being in a Flow State
- Higher Productivity – the flow state goes hand in hand with maximum performance, as attention is fully focused on one activity or goal. This, in turn, allows you to do more with less energy.
- Greater Satisfaction – people often feel much more satisfied with their performance. This is related to high engagement in the activity, the happiness energy created by dopamine, and positive emotions both during and after the activity.
- Better Emotion Regulation – improved concentration and higher self-confidence help reduce anxiety and stress.
How to Achieve a Flow State?
- Choose a Clear Goal
It’s much easier to focus if you know the end result you want to achieve and can control.
- Choose Activities That Captivate You but Are Challenging Enough
A balanced level of challenge will make the activity engaging and interesting.
- Focus
It has been proven that multitasking does not promote productivity but actually reduces it by up to 40%. Schedule time blocks in your calendar when you will focus on specific activities. Plan them during your productive times – for some it will be in early mornings, while for others – late evenings.
While focusing on the activity, turn off distractions – such as phone calls or app notifications.
Research shows that it is possible to spend 90 minutes to 2 hours in the flow state, and these periods can be repeated throughout the day.
- Take Care of Yourself
In the flow state, basic needs are often forgotten, which is not good for your body. Therefore, keep a water bottle and some healthy snacks or fruit nearby.
- Create Rituals
In my experience, creating rituals is one of the most important prerequisites for entering the flow state. Think about these questions. What helps you focus before starting work? Maybe it’s a 15-minute walk in nature or meditation to stop the chaotic flow of thoughts. Or perhaps it’s gestures, breath observation, and other mindfulness exercises that help focus on the task at hand? Or maybe it’s simply preparing a cup of tea?
- Get to Know Yourself
The more you observe and get to know yourself, the easier it will be to get into the flow. What are your most productive time periods? What helps you focus? What could potentially distract you and divert your thoughts from the task?
What puts me into flow?
That’s definitely proximity to nature, especially, forests. I also feel the flow when coaching my clients and having this deep inner connection. Sometimes I even wonder who is more blessed – the client being coached or me being able to participate as a guide in this divine creative process. I also wrote this blog while being in flow state.
Play with the Flow
I agree with the idea that our entire life is one big game, and the main goal is to live and enjoy this life while making this world a slightly better place with our actions.
Flow means living life while playing with it. It ads color, flavor and taste to the life. Flow brings satisfaction, reduces stress, and adds meaning and joy to any activity. In every area of your life (work, creative activities or any other activities), you’ll feel better when you’re in the flow state.
Coaching is one of the methods that can help you get to know yourself better, gain clarity about your goals, and develop resilience to achieve success in your professional and personal life. Additionally, transformational coaching offers an even deeper level of support, promoting profound changes in thinking and behavior, allowing for lasting positive changes in your life. As a leader, entrepreneur, and coach, I would be happy to assist you on your growth journey.
Sign up for a free introductory call with me to see if coaching is right for you and to decide if we are a good fit. Sign up here.
Sources:
www.betterup.com
www.calm.com
