Finding FLOW

What is FLOW?

FLOW, a term initially coined by Positive Psychologist, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, as the experience of being in a state of ease and joy. It is the occasion or event in which challenges are effectively matched to capabilities and we are fully and creatively present.

When in FLOW:

1. Focus and concentrate on the task at hand
2. Gain a sense of control – a sense of being “in charge”
3. Are fully attentive, with no self-consciousness
4. Priorities become clear resulting in unself-conscious self assurance – a state of ease and joy

So how do we get there?

We experience FLOW when we begin learning something new – everything is new and flow absorption is present as you struggle to develop and master new skills. As your level of competency progresses, either boredom will ensue because there is inadequate challenge (the skill has been learned at that level) or anxiety occurs, experienced as stress because a bigger challenge than we can cope with, has presented itself.

Either way, one wants to get back to flow, because it feels so good, either by:

• Overcoming the anxiety challenge
• Becoming more skilled, or
• Taking on a challenge that will overcome the boredom, thus getting back into flow at a more complex level.

 

Creating the conditions for FLOW in the workplace are not unlike those you need to meet to experience FLOW in your life!

Flow occurs when the goal, role and expectations are clear and people are free to concentrate fully on the task. Consistent feedback on what’s been achieved and progress towards the goal sustains focus and motivation.

If, on the one hand, the challenge is too great for an individual’s skill level they get frustrated, and on the other hand, if the task isn’t challenging enough, the individual simply gets bored. Matching skill and challenge and getting the right fit is a balancing act – balancing the needs of the person, the team, the project and the business.

The central paradox of FLOW in the workplace or in a group is that it can only happen when there is a shared vision, shared values and rules or standards of agreement that all participants accept and yet with too many rules or too much cohesion, the potential for FLOW, which leads to creativity and innovation, is lost.

Ask yourself:

1. Do we know where we’re going?
2. Is everyone working together?
3. How effectively is the available emotional energy being managed? How much is needed?
4. What action can be taken to increase or direct the supply?

Coaching helps clients harness their creativity and find their way into FLOW, helping them build their capacity to ever greater complexity and achievement through their own voluntary action. Schedule your complimentary strategy session and experience coaching yourself.