Have you ever felt a sense of deep focus while working? Like the time has slowed down, and you’re mentally in the zone? There’s a term in psychology for this experience. It’s called a “flow state”.
Flow state is a feeling where you become totally absorbed in your actions. This can help individuals tune out any distractions and achieve high productivity. In this article, we’ll discuss how solopreneurs can benefit from a flow state and be able to enter it while at work.
What Does It Mean to Be in a Flow State and What Are the Benefits?
The concept of “flow state” is described by psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi as “a mental state where an individual is fully immersed in a task”. He called this a flow because people who are fully absorbed in activities illustrated their feeling using the metaphor of being carried by a river flow.
You know you’re in a flow when you seem to get detached from your environment. Instead, you direct your attention toward a single task. As an entrepreneur, a flow state can help you because your performance gets better and your task is finished more immediately.
Flow also corresponds to a positive feeling. You feel pleasure after going into that kind of mental state. In fact, Csíkszentmihályi discovered in his research that enjoyment didn’t come from relaxation or living without stress but when people’s attention was fully absorbed in doing what they wanted.
Ways to Enter a Flow State of Mind at Work
So, what should you do to enter this state? A flow state of mind can occur in a variety of ways for various people. But it usually happens when you’re doing something you enjoy, and you’re an expert in. So think about the things that can motivate you and improve your skills to avoid being stressed in doing the task at hand.
Here are some strategies to help you increase your chances of getting in the zone.
1. Make a pre-flow ritual
It’s easier to enter the flow state if you create a ritual before starting. You could do that by grabbing a drink, setting up your workspace, and checking your messages before putting your phone in silent mode. You can also bring a small snack with you in case you get hungry while working.
You don’t have to be strict about what you perform in this ritual. You don’t even have to do the same activity every day. Note that this part just helps your brain get in the zone.
2. Identify your biological peak time
One of the best ways to focus is to work during your biological peak time. This is when your mind is sharp and filled with energy. Getting into a flow state can drain your energy, so it’s important that you’re energized before doing it.
3. Eliminate distractions
Even though being in a flow state will naturally filter out distractions from the environment, there is still a chance that you can get distracted by them. So it’s better if you remove the distractions before starting your work. For instance, you can turn off your phone or put it in silent mode. You can also listen to music and go to a place conducive to working.
Read more: How to Eliminate Distractions While Working from Home
Conclusion
Lastly, focus on your journey rather than your destination. And don’t force yourself to get into the flow state if you’re not feeling it. That’s fine. You can still produce great results without being in the flow.
