When we consider the concept of flow, I think it is useful to look at three things: what is flow, how can we get into a flow state and how can we use flow to increase productivity?

1. What is flow?

Have you ever been so involved in a task that time passes by without you really realising it? Being in this flow state is commonly referred to as being “in the zone”. We feel full concentration on a task that keeps us from focusing on ourselves. When we are in a flow state we are immersed in the task at hand which keeps us from being in other, negative states such as boredom or anxiety. This is the part of the flow concept that reminds me of mindfulness (see previous post). It seems that there are many ways in which living in the present increases our wellbeing.

Essentially, being in a flow state gives us a feeling of contentment and makes us productive.

2. How can we get in a flow state?

Tasks that are more likely to bring about a flow state are those that are intrinsically (we complete a task because we want to, not because someone else wants us to) rewarding. The tasks should also require a certain level of skill. For example, working and sports more frequently induce a flow state that housework or TV. Selecting tasks that have clear goals and gradually increase in difficulty can increase the likelihood of flow.

3. How can we use the flow state to increase productivity?

We can use this state to help us become more focused when working. We should find a task/ job that we personally enjoy. I believe that this is the most important factor in achieving a flow state. I would advise getting those important, yet laborious jobs out of the way first thing, allowing yourself the time and stress-free environment to delve into a task you love.

We should choose a task that takes some skill and set clear goals for completion. Working on a task that is hard enough to find interesting, yet easy enough to complete is another important aspect of flow. These are the tasks that we find fulfilling and rewarding. We also feel much more satisfaction when we meet goals that we have personally set.

It sounds simple, but the more autonomy we have over our work, the more likely we will be able to experience a flow state. For example, allowing an employee to complete a job in the morning when they are at their most productive may be beneficial to one worker, whereas allowing another employee to listen to music may increase their productivity.

The most important thing to remember is that although flow increases productivity, it also increases satisfaction and happiness. These are some fantastic by-products from doing tasks that we enjoy.

I got most of my information for this blog from a wonderful book called “Positive Psychology: The science of happiness and human strengths” by Alan Carr. This book includes so much research to inform its content that it really is worth a look.