TL:DR
Named by Mihály CsÃkszentmihályi in 1975, the concept of flow state has been widely referred to across a variety of fields. It’s that special state of mind where work starts to flow effortlessly, and we get an insane amount of it done in a short period of time. Here’s how to get into flow at will.
What is a flow state?
Let’s talk about getting into the flow.
We know it by many names, flow state, being in the zone, in the groove, to name a few.
Named by Mihály CsÃkszentmihályi in 1975, the concept has been widely referred to across a variety of fields.
It’s that special state of mind where work starts to flow effortlessly, and we get an insane amount of it done in a short period of time.
It’s a great feeling and something well worth trying to get into more regularly.
Most of us get into the flow state only accidentally and those moments are far and few.
However, what if I tell you that you can get into the flow by design.
Here are 4 steps to get into a flow state and be productive at a superhuman level
Getting into the flow state
Step 1 – Get Prepared
Start by getting yourself prepared. It’s hard to get into the flow state when you constantly have to get up to grab more supplies.
And it’s not just the stuff away from your desk. You don’t want a train of thought to be interrupted so you can go find a figure or a document on your computer.
Prepare as much as you can.
Make sure you have all things and information you may need at your fingertips.
Of course, that isn’t always possible, as new ideas and things pop up while you’re working.
But do your best to eliminate the factors that might prevent you from getting in the flow.
Step 2 – Get Comfy
Next, it’s time to get comfortable.
That means finding a comfortable chair and desk to work at, but also creating a setting that’s conducive to flow.
What motivates and inspires you?
Is it music, scent, pictures of your family, or the calendar with the project outline posted on it?
Use whatever it takes to transport yourself into the flow state.
Step 3- Create time blocks
Carve out blocks of time dedicated to a task.
For example, you may choose to spend the first 30 minutes of your day checking and answering emails. But once done, close the email application and spend the next 45 minutes or so on the next task.
Don’t start doing something and stop every five minutes to check your emails.
Use an extension like Just Focus to block all distracting websites during this period.
The Pomodoro Technique is another great way to manage your time and getting into a flow state.
Step 4 – Get Your Head In The Game
Last but not least, you need to get your head in the game. Getting into the flow is mostly mental.
Yes, the outside stuff we talked about will help, but you can sabotage all the preparation in the world if you go in with a negative attitude.
Instead, spend a few minutes visualizing what it feels like to be in the flow.
Then think about why it is important to get this work done.
Who will it benefit?
What impact will it have on you, your job, your family?
Find some internal motivation to make you want to get this done. That’s when you’re ready to get to work and get into the flow.
Conclusion
Getting into a flow state can do wonders for your productivity and in this post, we talked about 4 steps that will enable you to get into flow at will.
Give these 4 steps process a try and use it anytime you want to get more done in less time.
As an added bonus, you’ll find you’ll have more fun doing your work and you’re gaining a lot of pride for a job well done in a timely manner.
And let’s not forget that a flow state will leave you with plenty of time left over for the important stuff – spending time with your loved ones and relaxing with one of your favorite hobbies.
You may also like:
FIND YOUR IKIGAI IN 5 SIMPLE STEPS: AN ACTION GUIDE TO MOTIVATION AND HAPPINESS
Leave a Reply