If you’re into productivity tricks and hacks, you’ve probably heard experts and gurus talking about achieving a “flow state.”
Many claim it’s the peak of cognitive performance, where you’re enjoying the work while, at the same time, being ultra-productive.
So, in more detail, what exactly does it mean?
What is a mind flow state?
And how can you get into one?
What is Mind Flow?
The mind flow state involves being hyper focused on a task or activity where one isn’t too bored nor are they too challenged.
During this time, we don’t think about anything outside of the task or have thoughts about ourselves performing the task. As I write most of my articles, I actually find getting into this state produces the best works I’ve ever written!
Many people refer to this state as “in the zone” mind flow, meaning nothing really distracts them outside of the task at hand. This state also produces feelings of reward and requires a high amount of time or effort to make progress.
You’ll know you’re in a flow state if:
- You’re ultra-focused. It’s hard to distract you from the task or activity. In fact, when you do face an interruption, you might actually feel annoyed by it.
- You lack a constant stream of self-consciousness. We are always thinking. However, in a mind flow state, we don’t have that constant stream of thoughts or opinions about ourselves. We merely just do or “be.”
- You enjoy what you’re working on. When we enjoy the task or activity, we are much more likely to immerse ourselves in it.
- You persist, despite potential setbacks. When in a flow state, we might face fewer frustrations (or feelings of wanting to “give up”). Instead, we strive to complete the task to the best of our abilities, persisting even in adverse circumstances.
As you can probably already guess, various benefits are associated with being in a mind flow state.
It’s been shown to be associated with:
- increased happiness
- increased satisfaction
- higher intrinsic motivation
- enhanced creativity
- even improved emotional regulation—meaning it can spill over into various aspects of our lives
What is the Difference Between Flow and Mindfulness?
Mind flow involves almost forgetting yourself and time because you are so immersed in the task or activity.
On the other hand, mindfulness involves being more aware of yourself, what you are doing, and the present moment.
During flow state, you aren’t really taking in a deep appreciation for life or practicing awareness of oneself (which isn’t necessarily bad as we know this has various benefits). Yet, mindfulness involves cultivating this deeper appreciation and awareness.
It’s truly about being present in the moment, not getting lost in it. At the end of the day, both states have their place in life and overall happiness.
How Do You Get Into a Flow State of Mind?
So, how can you harness the power of a flow state of mind to achieve higher productivity and satisfaction?
Here are a few tips!
1. Clearly define your goals.
- What is the purpose of the task?
- What do you wish to accomplish?
Make sure these are clear. You may even want to use S.M.A.R.T. to define your goals, making them Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-oriented.
2. Find a balance between challenge and your skillset.
A mind flow state is easy to achieve when you have the right balance between your skills and what challenges you. This allows you to push things forward in a positive direction while also boosting your confidence in your own strengths.
3. Limit distractions.
Getting into a mind flow is all about avoiding interruptions.
In fact, any interference with this state of mind can be ultra-frustrating. This is because it takes a ton of attention and energy to switch between tasks—energy that you may find be better poured into the task or activity you’re setting out to perform.
A few tips here… Try putting your phone on “Do Not Disturb,” and turning off any alarms. It’s also a good idea to mute your inbox in the meantime to avoid disruption, especially if the task involves using your laptop or phone.
4. Remind yourself what’s enjoyable about the task.
I use this one a lot! I block out any negative thoughts that come into my mind and quickly revert to what I love about the task I’m about to perform. This reframes it in a way that I can obtain a mind flow state and think about thinking about myself less! (Some experts like to refer to this as “intrinsic motivation.”)
Related Article: 7 Simple Ways to Adopt a More Positive Mindset
5. Try not to force it.
At the same time, if it’s not happening, it’s not happening. For instance, if you’re insanely overwhelmed or stressed by personal events, it’s going to be really hard to get into a flow state.
But the good news is we can still get things done without the flow state. We might just enjoy it less or it may take longer, and that’s okay! Our mind flow won’t always be accessible, but the more you practice it, the easier it gets.
6. Tackle your physical needs before the task.
This means grabbing a glass of water, using the bathroom, or eating lunch before settling into your flow state. This will, again, limit interruptions and allow time to fly without you even noticing but while you’re getting stuff done!
Related Article: 6 Ways to Improve Focus and Take it to the Next Level
Practice the Mind Flow State
“The way to learn the most is when you’re doing something with such enjoyment, you don’t notice that the time passes.”
— Albert Einstein
Use the tips above to find your mind flow state! What can you achieve when you do? Where will your drive take you?
Read Next: 7 Must-Read Psychology Books: Unlock the Secrets to a Meaningful Life
Editor’s note: This article was originally published May 11, 2023 and has been updated to improve reader experience.
Photo by Amina Filkins
