How To Achieve The Optimal State of FLOW In Your Life
Posted on November 08, 2022 by Dr Larry Davies, One of Thousands of Executive Coaches on Noomii.
Defining FLOW. Recognizing FLOW. Returning to FLOW. Develop strategies so you are at peak performance when you are at work.
Flow is the feeling of being in the zone, where you are completely focused and immersed in what you are doing. It is often associated with a sense of effortless action and enjoyment. When you are in a flow state, you are completely focused on the task at hand and are completely immersed in the moment. Time seems to slow down or even stand still. You are in complete control of your actions and your mind is clear.
HOW TO
There are many things you can do to get into the flow state, and become more productive and creative. Some basic strategies include:
1. establishing rituals and routines to signal to your brain that it’s time to focus;
2. creating an environment that is conducive to concentration and focus;
3. breaking down tasks into manageable pieces;
4. setting clear goals and deadlines; and
5. practicing mindfulness and meditation to help quiet the inner chatter and better focus on the task at hand.
If you can find ways to implement even a few of these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing flow more often and reaping the many benefits that come with it.
There are a few different things you can do to get into a state of flow if you are using the list above. First, it’s important to have a clear and specific goal in mind. without a clear goal, you’ll likely find yourself frustrated and unable to focus. Second, you need to be willing to put in the hard work to achieve your goal. This means setting aside distractions and really focusing on the task at hand. Finally, you need to be open to feedback and willing to adjust your approach as needed. If you can stay focused and flexible, you’ll be in a much better position to achieve flow.
WHEN YOU AREN’T IN FLOW
There are a few tell-tale signs that you are not in a state of flow. Firstly, you may feel a sense of unease or anxiety. You may also find yourself struggling to focus or feeling restless. You may also notice that your performance is not up to your usual standards. If you are aware of these signs, it is important to take a step back and assess the situation. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, it is important to take a break and allow yourself to relax.
There are times when you are working on a project and you just can’t seem to get into the flow. You know what you need to do, but for some reason you just can’t focus. This can be frustrating, but it’s important to recognize when you’re not in flow so you can take a break and come back later. If you try to force yourself to keep working, you’ll likely just end up feeling even more frustrated and you won’t be productive. Sometimes all you need is a break, so don’t be afraid to take one.
RETURNING TO FLOW
There are few things as satisfying as getting back into a flow state after a break. Whether it’s picking up a project you haven’t worked on in a while or finally getting around to starting that new idea, getting back into flow can be a great feeling. Try these ‘Returning to Flow’ strategies. Take a look at what you were doing before you took the break. What was your last task? What was the last thing you were working on? Try to pick up where you left off and see if you can get back into the same groove.
If that doesn’t work, try something completely different. Sometimes starting fresh can be just what you need to get back into that blissful state of FLOW.
