Getting Into The Flow
“Let’s talk about getting into the flow.”
Positive psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi describes flow as a state of complete immersion in an activity. While in this mental state, people are completely involved and focused on what they are doing.
You know what I’m talking about, that special state of mind we reach – oftentimes with intention + planning – where work starts to flow effortlessly and intuitively and we get an insane amount of tasks checked off our work-to-do lists in a short but focused period of time.
Some of us like to refer to this as being “in the zone”. It’s a great feeling and something well worth implementing regularly.
Here are a few tips for how to get in the flow:
STEP 1: GET PREPARED
Start by preparing your space and your mind. It’s hard to get into the flow state when you’re constantly having to get up to grab more supplies or entertain unnecessary distractions. It’s not just those things that are away from your desk. You don’t want to be interrupted from being in the zone to go searching for a contract or pair of scissors, turn off annoying alerts on your phone, or dig for a file on your computer.
Getting prepared first can save you valuable minutes of work. Make sure you have all the materials and information you’ll need at your fingertips. Of course, that isn’t always possible, as new ideas and things pop up while you’re working. But do your best to eliminate having to stop and search for your tools, materials, supplies, files, etc; when you’re in the flow.
Clear your space, turn off unnecessary device alerts and computer updates, and inform others that you’ll be working for this block of time and you need uninterrupted quiet. Gather what you need, set a timer, and create a plan of the work you want to complete by the end of your time block. Trust me it works.
STEP 2: GET COMFORTABLE
This may seem unnecessary but trust me if you’re trying to establish flow in a chair that isn’t ergonomically fit for your body it’ll become a serious distraction. Also, the wrong lighting can hurt your eyes. Outfit your workspace with the right equipment. This will create a setting that’s conducive to flow and efficiency. What motivates and inspires you to work? Is it soft music, scented candles, fresh flowers, pictures of your family, natural light, your planner or the calendar with the project outline posted on it? Use whatever it takes to transport yourself into the flow state. Be sure your space is functional and your body is comfortable. This increases your chances of working longer without stopping. (This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take breaks.)
STEP 3: SET YOUR MIND SPACE
Last but not least, you need to get your mindset in the game. Getting into the flow is mostly mental. Yes, the outside elements we talked about above help, but you can sabotage all the preparation in the world if you go in with a pessimistic attitude, indecisiveness, and negative self-talk.
Instead spend a little time implementing these mindset boosters & self-care steps:
#1: Start with a quiet space to clear your mind, breathe and meditate (20 mins)
#2: Journal your thoughts, plans, dreams, and goals to unload mental melee (1 hr.)
#3: Stretch or exercise - eat a healthy meal, hydrate, set the body for motion & deep work (1 hr.)
#4: Visualize yourself being productive & completing your work.
Think about why it is important to get this work done. Who will it benefit? What impact will it have on you, your job, the people you serve, your family? Think about the strategy you’ll use. Find some internal motivation to make you want to get this done. That’s when you’re ready to get to work and get into the flow.
Quick love note:
Give this three-step process a try and use it anytime you want to get important tasks done. As a bonus, you’ll find you're enjoying your work more and making major gains in productivity and profitability. And let’s not forget that this leaves you plenty of time left over for the important stuff – spending time with those you love and relaxing.
If you’re really ready to take action and establish more flow in your work and life, we’re here to help you. Join The A. Suite for more personal and professional development tools + resources!
We even offer a special masterclass called Getting In the Flow!
WELCOME TO ALISSA AVENUE®
Hey There! I’m Alissa, CEO of this hive. We help busy humans free themselves from being overwhelmed and stuck living and thinking and reignite their passion and ambition. We provide you with the tools to transition and transform confidently.
