Go With The Flow
I’m sure you have heard that expression before. It has infiltrated our world to mean “be chill” or “relax,” but there is much more to going with the flow than just letting things happen and having a “que sera sera” attitude. Sometimes in order to go with the flow you have to access the flow, which isn’t always easy.
But First, What Is Flow?
Have you ever been so mesmerized by what you are doing or experiencing that you don’t realize hours have passed? It could be during a rock climbing adventure that starts at dawn and somehow quickly turns to dusk, or a yoga class that was supposed to be an hour, but felt it only lasted for 5 minutes. You could say you were probably “in the zone” which means you probably were in a state of Flow. Flow is a state of mind in which you become completely immersed in whatever you are doing. It doesn’t have to be a physical activity like the ones listed above, it could be painting, playing music, cooking- any activity that is enjoyable and one in which you have developed a skill.
Why You Should Care About Flow
Flow activities are more than just an in-the-moment beneficial activity. Those who practice Flow may have a better ability to be present, engaged and enjoy other opportunities. In addition, Flow can improve creative performances, skill development, emotional regulations and well, overall happiness and life-fulfillment. Some studies suggest that Flow positively effects the dopamine signaling system in the brain.
Components of a Flow State
So if I “zone out,” I’m in a state of Flow? Not exactly. According to the psychologist Csikszentmihalyi, who developed the theory of Flow, there are nine components of an establish a Flow state. They are as follows:
1. Clear set goals.
2. High level of concentration
3. Loss sense of self
4. Distortion of time
5. Prompt feedback so adjustments can be made
6. Balance between skill level and challenging activity
7. Intrinsically rewarding activities
8. Sense of control
9. Focus is only on the activity.
How to Find Flow
Not everything is a Flow activity. Here are some recommendations on how to potentially achieve Flow. The first is to do what you already enjoy doing. Most people like what they are good at, so there is a better chance of continuing with something that is more enjoyable as compared to a tortuous boring task you hate. Another recommendation is to remove yourself from distractions. Flow requires you to be immersed in the activity, the more there is to distract you, the less likely Flow will be achieved. Lastly, pick an activity that can grow with your skill level. The key to Flow is finding a balance between your skill level and the challenging nature of the activity. As your skill level increases, it is important that the activity allows room for the skills to be challenged and for you to feel rewarded.
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-flow-2794768
Gold J, Ciorciari J. A review on the role of the neuroscience of flow states in the modern world. Behav Sci (Basel). 2020;10(9):137. doi:10.3390/bs10090137
TED. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi: Flow, the secret to happiness. October 24, 2008.
