6 steps for dipping into the stream
Productivity / / December 23, 2019
A state where we are completely immersed in his activity, psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, first proposed the concept of flow, describes as an end in itself action. Such actions are completely dependent on the mindset and preferences of the individual. Some, for example, experience a state of flow during operation, yoga or cooking dinner.
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, "Finding Flow"An end in itself acts we perform for their own sake, because the associated feeling is the goal.
In a state of flux brain works faster, it is easier to process and make sense of information. And if you increase the time spent on it at least by 15-20%, increase productivity by halfIncreasing the 'meaning quotient' of work. .
About this in his book "The Rise of Superman" writes Steven Kotler. It explains a better performance with a mixture of five neurochemicals that are produced by the brain at a flow condition of noradrenaline, dopamine, endorphin, anandamide and serotonin. Thanks to them, the flow - one of the most enjoyable and addictive states.
But productivity is not limited. Kotler believes that state of flux very good for health, especially for the immune system.
In the state of flow can dive, changing its attitude. This will help you six simple steps.
1. Get rid of the well-established myths about the
Flow state is very different from our typical idea of work. Being in the flow, we feel a sense of ease, pleasure and deepened in the business, we are relaxed and focused at the same time. Outside it, we are nervous, we can not to focus on, We get the feeling that we do not control the situation and do not have time.
Csikszentmihalyi believes that we find ourselves in a state of flux, when the task on which we are working, in line with our skills, but at the same time remains challenging enough to interest her not disappeared. However, even if the coincidence of these conditions, we do not always get pleasure from work. It's simple: many people think that the work should be unpleasant.
Some equate the stress and discomfort to the productivity, firmly believes that the exhausting work helps to ensure a high-quality results.
Everything is exactly the opposite. In this situation, the time between periods usually flies haste and procrastination - and in the evening we valimsya down, so did not really did not.
So, before you try to dive into the state of flow, get rid from all past prejudices about work.
2. Have a clear goal
An obligatory condition for the flow state - it is a clear, clear goal. For example, the 2003 survey found that the cleaners in hospitals feel part of the team that helps people recoverWorking, playing, and eating: Making the most of most moments. .
This view brings the realization of its goals and is a different attitude towards work, completely different from when we think only about the salary or career.
It is therefore important to define your own target, which will integrate your current position with your personal mission. If you can not, remember that part of the work, which brings you the most satisfaction, and think about why it is you prefer.
3. Develop "in-line" thinking
People predisposed to an end in itself action, generally open to new experiences. They have internal motivation developed. They do not work for someone else, but for the sake of pleasure to perform an interesting task. And since they are not bound to the results, it is easier to sink into a state of flux.
All these qualities can be a build. To start, focus on a specific task. If you notice that distracted by extraneous thoughts or fears the consequences of failure, again, go back to your job and concentrate on its implementation.
Use positive self-suggestion. During the investigation it was found runners habits, it helps athletes to strengthen the state of flowImagery intervention to increase flow state. . Before you take up a new business, imagine that everything runs like clockwork. Just a few seconds of this self-hypnosis will facilitate the immersion in the stream.
4. Reduce the distractions
Constant distractions in modern offices most hinder immerse themselves in a state of flux. Once we start one thing distracts us something else: phone calls, emails, meetings, colleagues request. Because of this, the productivity drops markedly.
So try to reduce distractions as possible. Keep open only the browser tab that you need for the task. Close all unnecessary programs. Disable or remove the phone in a drawer.
5. Give up the multitasking
Instead of doing several things at once, group their duties. For example, responding to e-mail, do not try and communicate more with the client on the phone. Of course, this approach requires a lot of effort: have to pre-plan your day, perhaps even warn colleagues and managers.
To test this method, select a few blocks of time to work with different groups of tasks. When finished with one group, mark these things in the list made for the day.
Noting such a small victory, we will give ourselves a boost, helping to cope with the big things.
Naturally, it is not appropriate for all professions: in some areas it is necessary to react quickly.
6. Develop awareness
If you do not develop awareness, Any who came up with the idea or you will pull out an urgent request from the stream state. For awareness training, try to regularly perform special exercises. Here are a few examples.
Feet on the floor
Feel your feet on the floor. Pay attention to place the feet in contact with the socks or shoes. Gently push feet on the floor, feel its hardness and resistance. So you can help yourself to feel the connection with the present moment.
minute awareness
Set a timer for one minute and count the number of breaths taken. Repeat several times to determine your average number of breaths per minute. Then take a rule several times a day to arrange themselves such lucid moments.
breather
Just knowing where you are now, you can move forward. Notice how you feel at the moment: note your thoughts, emotions, physical sensations. Now fix your attention on the breath. Feel how the air enters the chest and coming out of it. Gradually expand the focus, try to feel every part of the body.
So you will be able to remain in a state of flux at work, even when you are distracted by something: for example, when you make a mistake or have read an angry letter from a colleague.
Now you will not be difficult to deal with the problem and once again plunge into the job.