Flow
This is an amazing summary of all the research on the topic of "Flow". Many of us wonder how some people are more creative than others. As you watch the video and read the attached article, consider the following:
- Think of the last time you experienced "Flow." What were you doing?
- Consider your experience in the operating room. Yes, thinking of complications and strategies to avoid them is important - but overthinking and a fixation on outcomes will likely reduce the likelihood of you entering a state of flow during an operation and exhibiting your best performance.
- FLOW is an antidote to burnout !!
Want to learn more about Flow?
The flow state of mind, first introduced by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, is characterized by a deep sense of immersion, engagement, and optimal experience in an activity.
In this state, individuals often report feeling that their actions and awareness merge, creating a sense of oneness with the task at hand. The flow state is accompanied by selflessness, where the sense of self and self-consciousness disappears, and timelessness, where past and future dissolve into an eternal present. This state often feels effortless, intrinsically rewarding, and autotelic, meaning the activity is done for its own sake. Paradoxically, individuals in flow experience a heightened sense of control over their situation. Intrinsic motivation is a key component of flow, as the activity itself is enthralling and rewarding.
Flow also requires intense concentration on a limited field of information, allowing for complete absorption in the present moment.
To achieve flow, there must be a balance between the challenge of the task and the individual's skill set, pushing them to stretch but not break. Clear, immediate goals and real-time feedback are essential in maintaining focus and allowing mid-flight adjustments.