What is the concept of Flow? | The Psychology of Flow | Benefits of Flow | How to Induce Flow

What is the concept of “Flow”?

Popularised by positive psychologist, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, “flow” is a concept defined as a mental state that occurs when a person is completely immersed in an activity [1][2]. This state is often associated with the creative arts [2]. It can also occur during sports activity, such as swimming.

The Psychology of “Flow”

Csikszentmihalyi first came up with the concept after observing an artist’s focus and persistence to complete a painting despite their discomfort and tiredness [1]. He eventually explored further into other occupational fields regarding the concept.

In order to achieve the optimal level of “Flow”, it is recommended that people need to have a short-term goal in mind and receive immediate feedback. Thereafter, they are aware of their progress and create goals to change their actions accordingly [1]. Additionally, people are required to challenge themselves within their own scope of abilities with tasks within their skill sets.

Benefits

Benefits of the “Flow” state include [2]:

  • Develop people’s emotional regulation skills
  • Increase motivation
  • Enhance performance in various areas, such as teaching, athletics and creativity

As they engage in enjoyable and fulfilling activities to get into that state, it can subsequently lead to higher levels of happiness, satisfaction and self-actualisation.

How to Induce Flow

To facilitate entry into “Flow” state, Csikszentmihalyi found that there are four types of triggers: psychological, environmental, social and creative. [1]

  • Intense concentration
  • Goal clarity
  • Immediate feedback
  • Challenge to skills ratio
  • High stakes and consequences
  • Rich, complex environments
  • Total physical awareness
  • Serious concentration
  • Clear, shared goals among members (eg. team sports)
  • Good communication and familiarity
  • Equal participation
  • Equal skill level from participants
  • Pattern recognition
  • Risk-taking skills

Another flow-inducing method is meditation. It allows people to lose their sense of time, self and surroundings [1]. 

References:

[1] Moore (2019). What is Flow in Psychology? Definition and 10+ Activities to Induce Flow. Positive Psychology. https://positivepsychology.com/what-is-flow/ 

[2] Cherry (2022). What is a Flow State?. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-flow-2794768