![the flow experience the flow experience](https://www.lifecoachhub.com/files/images/Find-your-flow-the-psychology-of-optimal-experience.jpg)
The activity is intrinsically enjoyable and there is a sense of effortlessness. The individual is working at the limits of his capabilities, envisioning steps forward almost simultaneously with taking action. The first and most integral element of a flow experience is intense absorption that precludes multitasking, daydreaming or attention to other matters. In his 2004 TED talk, Csíkszentmihályi explained the phenomenon as a function of cognitive processing limits: the intense concentration on the activity at hand prevents the capacity for other processing, such as rumination or awareness of hunger. The term flow arose from the way many of the artists described the experience as like being carried along on a current of water. The psychologist was interviewing artists about their tendency to become so absorbed in their work that they lost awareness of anything else, including basic needs for food, water and sleep. The experiences are considered profound enough to improve the individual’s overall satisfaction in life.Īlthough flow experiences have been observed for thousands of years, Mihály Csíkszentmihályi coined the term in 1975. Sometimes referred to as being “in the zone,” flow states are known to enhance creativity and performance and spark innovation.
![the flow experience the flow experience](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-_lcBIi0jFk/maxresdefault.jpg)
Flow, in the context of psychology, is a state of intense engagement, focus and contentment in the present moment and current activity.