Instructional Design by Don Becker

What is Flow?

In psychology, a flow state, also known as being in the zone, is the mental state in which a person performing some activity is fully immersed in a feeling of energized focus, full involvement, and enjoyment in the process of the activity. Do you ever notice how time seems to fly by when you are doing something you really enjoy? If you’ve ever felt that, you were in a flow state.

Named by the psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi in 1975, the flow state theory has many practical applications in the workplace and has existed for thousands of years under other names. So, think about you starting your 3rd week. The new hire jitters are gone, you’ve picked your Growth Project topic, and you’re ready to find your zone. What is stopping you from getting into the flow at work? Who can support you so you can get into the flow?

Achieving a state of flow, where you’re fully immersed and completely focused on the task at hand, can significantly enhance your performance and productivity. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve flow:

1. Find Your Flow Triggers: Flow triggers are specific conditions and activities that set the stage for optimal performance. They often involve a combination of your interests, skills, and the challenges presented by the task. Some common flow triggers include passion, purpose, curiosity, clear goals, balancing challenge and skill, risk, and creativity.
2. Set Clear, Actionable Goals: Defining specific objectives for your task not only provides a roadmap for your efforts, but also contributes to a heightened sense of purpose and engagement. Clear goals should follow the SMART goal framework: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-Bound.
3. Locate Your Internal Locus of Control: Recognize and tap into your internal locus of control—the belief that you have the power to influence your outcomes. Practice self-affirmations and establish meaningful goals that align with your values and aspirations.
4. Balance Skills and Challenge: Flow is most likely to occur when your skill level is perfectly aligned to the challenge that the activity presents. Ensure the task is challenging enough to push your skills to the next level and keep you engaged.
5. Avoid Interruptions: Minimize distractions to maintain your focus and stay in the flow.
6. Focus on the Process, Not the End State: Concentrate on the task at hand rather than the final outcome.

Remember, entering a flow state requires a conducive environment and mindset that allows for complete concentration and immersion in the task at hand. It might take some time and practice to find what works best for you.