The article delves into “flow,” an optimal state of consciousness defined by complete absorption in an activity, leading to peak performance and feeling one’s best. Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, who introduced the concept, suggested flow could be the secret to happiness. It’s characterized by intense focus, clear moment-to-moment goals, immediate feedback, a perceived balance between the task’s difficulty and one’s skills, a distorted sense of time, loss of self-consciousness, and the activity being intrinsically rewarding.
Key benefits of experiencing flow include increased happiness, productivity, creativity, improved performance, and long-term well-being. It’s also associated with reduced stress and protection against mental health issues like depression and anxiety, partly by quieting one’s inner critic, leading to a feeling of liberation.
While flow cannot be “hacked” on demand, as expert Dr. Cameron Norsworthy notes, individuals can increase their chances of achieving it. The primary method involves engaging in tasks that are challenging but well-matched to their skill level—too easy leads to apathy, too hard to anxiety. Other facilitators include having clear goals, minimizing distractions (a major flow killer, according to Steven Kotler), and an “autotelic” tendency to engage in activities for their inherent enjoyment. As skills develop in an area, like Dr. Richard Huskey’s yoga practice, flow becomes more accessible.
Factors that interrupt flow include distractions (e.g., digital notifications, open office interruptions), internal conflict regarding the task, lack of clear purpose, ambiguous goals, or feeling forced into an activity. The main takeaway is that understanding and fostering the conditions for flow—which can even occur in group settings—can significantly enhance both performance and overall life satisfaction, even though the state itself requires deliberate cultivation and a supportive environment.
Source: ‘An optimal state of consciousness’: is flow the secret to happiness? | Well actually | The Guardian
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