Let me share a secret that transformed my creative journey – discovering the power of 'Flow'. You know those rare moments when you're so absorbed in something that the world around you just fades away? That's Flow, it's a universal phenomenon and is also know by another name or phrase; 'being in the Zone'. It's where creativity dances freely, and for me, tapping into this state has been a true pleasure in my life. If you have time, here’s a little video with author and Flow champion Steven Kotler on Flow, that can help demystify this wonderful state of mind - click on the image below to play.

What we know is that in the realm of creative pursuits, there exists this little sweet spot where time seems to stand still, distractions melt away, and ideas come effortlessly to life. This magical space is known as "Flow” and is not just a fleeting moment of inspiration; it's a powerful psychological state that can significantly enhance the quality and satisfaction of creative work and life in general. I’ve experienced this many times in my life and it is always wonderfully productive. I haven’t always been able to find this place, but when I do, it is an absolute pleasure. Perhaps you’ve experienced the same state in areas of your creative life? Maybe sports where you couldn’t miss, or making and playing music, or just a great conversation where you get those lovely feelings of euphoria and you just 'click', it can happen anywhere.

The father of Flow Theory, Mihály Csikszentmihalyi, offers a scientific explanation, suggesting our limited neurological bandwidth is fully utilised during creative tasks, allowing us to lose our sense of self and focus entirely on the activity. This resonates with my experience of losing track of time while painting or making art, where my identity and the outside world temporarily fade away. I love being in that state, it just feels right.

Creating the right conditions for Flow was a gradual process for me, involving a few key strategies. Learning to set clear goals was crucial, like deciding what I am going to make or engage in, but balancing the challenge and my skill level also played a significant role. So, starting projects that were challenging, yet manageable, helped me stay in the Flow zone without feeling overwhelmed by what I was trying to achieve. And the big one, we all know it, reducing distractions was essential! This meant turning off my phone, closing my door, and allowing myself the luxury of uninterrupted time, creating a space where my mind could just wander and Flow. We discussed in previous blogs about the importance of setting the right conditions to help tune your senses to the present moment, to allow awareness and connection to your thoughts, feelings, and your environment – these are the building blocks of finding Flow.

To put a label on this state of mind, psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi developed a concept he called Flow Theory. He posits that Flow Theory offers a window into what happens in our minds when we're completely absorbed in an activity. Imagine a musician lost in their melody, a writer who can't stop typing because the words just Flow, an artist whose brush strokes feel as natural as breathing, or a sports person who is in the ‘zone’ and can’t miss a shot. These are instances of being completely absorbed, or Flowing – where deep concentration, a loss of self-consciousness, and a sense of effortless action converge – it’s magic!

We can now measure the benefits of Flow in creativity, and we know they extend beyond individual projects. For me, regularly experiencing Flow has led to personal growth, a refined purpose, increased self-esteem, and an overall sense of well-being. I think it cultivates a mindset that helps you embrace challenges in all areas of your life. Importantly it allows you to learn from failures, and to continuously seek improvement – essential traits for a flourishing life really.

Perhaps by understanding and cultivating Flow in our creative endeavours, we unlock not only our fullest creative potential but also a deeper sense of satisfaction and joy in our life and work. I heartily recommend embracing the principles of Flow, so perhaps you should give it a go, and find your Flow!

Thanks for reading dear community and best wishes on your journey,

~ Tania

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