You’ve probably had moments when you experienced a flow state—where you are deeply immersed in and focused on something until it feels like time has slowed down.
You're completely focused on the task at hand, and your sense of awareness and action sync to create effortless momentum. Some describe this as being ‘in the zone’, but psychologists more commonly refer to this as the flow state.
This flow state can be experienced by anyone and everyone, whether it is a work project, a physical activity, or even a simple day-to-day task.
You might wonder, “What’s the flow state?” or “How do I get into the flow state?”. We’ve compiled all you need to know about the flow state in this article, so keep reading to find out!
What’s the flow state?
The flow state - a concept popularised by psychologists Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and Jeanne Nakamura - is a mental state where, under the right conditions, you are fully engaged and immersed in a task. It’s when you are giving your utmost attention to an activity or task that you become deeply immersed. Once you are in this non-distracted zone, the mind’s chatter begins to drown out.
Some key signs that one might be experiencing a flow state include:
- Deep focus: It isn’t easy to distract someone who is in the flow. When a person or event causes an interruption, they may feel annoyed.
- Lack of self-consciousness: Some experience a decrease in ‘self-referential thinking’, where they are unlikely to think about themselves, their performance, or how others might see them.
- Enjoyment: Some enjoy the task or activity at hand, which encourages them to enter the flow state more.
- Persistence: Research found that being in the flow can counterbalance the struggles of a challenging task, encouraging them to keep going.
"The ego falls away. Time flies. Every action, movement, and thought follows inevitably from the previous one, like playing jazz. Your whole being is involved, and you're using your skills to the utmost," — Csíkszentmihályi
Why time flies when you're in the flow
The flow state of mind can make time seem to pass differently. When you're deeply engaged in a task, you may start working in the morning and suddenly realise that it's already past lunchtime. This state of being fully immersed in what you're doing makes hours fly by without you even noticing.
Research indicates that the flow state alters your perception of time. When you’re fully engaged in a task, your brain’s prefrontal cortex, responsible for time perception, becomes less active. This allows you to become deeply absorbed in the present moment, causing hours to feel like minutes.
How being in the flow boosts creativity and productivity
Being in the flow state doesn't just make time fly; it significantly boosts your creativity and productivity. You become six times more productive and three times more creative. The intense focus of flow allows your brain to form connections that don’t usually occur, leading to innovative ideas and solutions. You work more efficiently, with distractions fading away, making your work pace optimal. The result? Higher work quality and output.
Is flow the same as hyperfocus?
The state of being in ‘hyperfocus’ can sound similar to being in the flow. In the context of conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), hyperfocus refers to intense attention, or fixation, on a task that a person finds interesting. While some may say the two terms are interchangeable, they have some key differences.
Firstly, the flow is generally a beneficial state, hyperfocus can potentially be counterproductive. This is because a person might become too absorbed in their task and struggle to focus on anything else.
Another key difference is that hyperfocus normally refers to people who particularly enjoy the task. However, researchers have found that people can enter a state of flow during any task as long as it is challenging or meaningful enough.
How to get into the flow state
Achieving the flow state doesn't mean you need to follow a rigid set of steps, but there are several strategies you can practice to help you induce the flow. Here are some things to consider:
- Reflect on previous flow moments: Take note of factors that helped you enter the flow state, such as the type of task or activity, the environment, and your mental state at that moment. Once you have a rough idea, you can apply these factors to other tasks.
- Find your peak productivity periods: Think about what time of day you are most alert and energetic. Schedule your most challenging tasks during these peak times to maximise your chances of entering the flow state.
- Block out enough time: It takes time to enter a flow state. Therefore, it might be better to enter the flow for longer tasks and ensure you block out enough time to do so.
- Create a distraction-free environment: Minimise potential distractions by finding a quiet space, turning off notifications, and setting boundaries with those around you to ensure uninterrupted focus.
- Adjust your tasks: Tasks that are too easy can lead to boredom, while tasks that are too difficult can cause frustration. To find the right challenge balance, try to do tasks that you find meaningful or challenging, or alternatively, break down tasks that are too difficult.
Tips to Maintain the Flow State
Achieving the flow state is one thing, but maintaining it requires practice and patience. Be kind to yourself and recognise that not every session will be perfect. Here are a few tips to help sustain your flow over time:
- Take short breaks: Even in the flow state, taking short breaks can help maintain mental clarity and prevent burnout. Stretching, walking, or practising deep breathing exercises can rejuvenate your mind and body.
- Practice mindfulness: Being mindful of the present moment can help you sustain the flow state. Techniques such as meditation and focused breathing can train your mind to stay focused and present.
- Lead a healthy lifestyle: Prioritising your health and wellbeing in your daily life supports your ability to achieve and maintain flow. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and staying physically active contribute to mental clarity and focus.
Conclusion
Finding your flow is a journey of self-discovery and growth. Achieving the flow state is a powerful way to boost productivity, creativity, and overall happiness. By reflecting on previous flow experiences, minimising distractions, and finding the right challenge balance, you can experience this productive flow when you most need it.
Embrace the process, enjoy the journey, and soon, you’ll find yourself regularly entering that flow state where everything just clicks.
Looking for more productivity tips? Watch Dr. Tiffanie Ong, Naluri Chief Product Officer, as she explores how to measure productivity and improve work performance in our Productivity and Performance webinar video.