Riding the wave of flow: Turning passion into purpose

In the zone of personal fulfillment

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” — Howard Thurman.

See Kem-Laurin StoryTime for my fictional writing

For years, I commuted from Toronto’s bustling heart to a small town outside the city, not unlike many people I knew, doing the same thing every day. Like many, I did not have the luxury of always relying on train service, given my unpredictable schedule, so I opted for the flexibility of driving a few times a week when train and dwindling bus service became limiting. Initially, it was an hour’s glide, a seamless melding of the car’s motion, my countless e-books, podcasts, and music to keep me company. But as time trickled by, the city’s arteries clogged, transforming my smooth commute into a suffocating gridlock — a nightmare really. That was about 2018. I had enough.

On a snowy day, and we have loads of this in Canada, what was once a fleeting hour flow turned into a nightmare — a snow storm was incoming and driving westbound on the 401 was like driving into a giant, frosty bowl of poutine; a mix of slow-moving, gravy-like traffic, chunky truck-sized cheese curds, and slippery, salty conditions. Yes, it was a uniquely Canadian traffic jam, with no “Sorry!” on top, to make things better.

It was during one such endless wait, cocooned in the silent scream into the white void, that I found myself weeping, diminished mentally, to my inner child, calling my dad for comfort, as we meandered through the fog and low visibility of the 401. For me, this was more than a traffic jam; it was a life jam. It was traumatic! I started thinking about what would go wrong and how my own kids would cope if I continued this unsustainable necessary work practice of commuting.

And it was in this moment of utter stillness, amidst chaos, that I began to understand ‘flow’ — not just as a concept, but as a vital pulse of life, the smooth continuity of experience disrupted, leaving me gasping for the freedom that comes with unimpeded movement.

Of course, as an avid reader, I was familiar with Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. I had a copy at home and had schemed through it many times, but for me, this was that visceral aha moment of yes, my life is not “flowing.” Through tears and laughter, with my dad’s voice over the phone, I made it home, drank a few glasses of wine, after putting my kids to sleep and fell asleep.

While my example, aptly, relates to traffic flow as well as the mirroring to my own personal life, flow applies in so many contexts. There has been a frequency of similar challenges from many people I know. These days, many conversations with friends, neighbours, and colleagues reveal a common feeling of “stuck and going nowhere.”

I think many of us feel that way these days. As this is such a bigger topic that deserves a post of its own, I will, instead, start by discussing a more relatable example where there was a noticeable absence of flow. Its a work example and sometimes a root cause of the “stuck” feeling we all talk about.

Having worked in both tech and corporate environments for many years, I’ve collaborated with numerous skilled colleagues. We’ve had our challenges but also times when we were perfectly in sync, making the work feel like an exhilarating journey. However, a recent project proved difficult, leaving me feeling blocked. Each interaction, with this one colleague, especially, seemed unproductive, with my suggestions and advice leading to a standstill. My colleague appeared unprepared, and our meetings felt like monologues with little accomplished. This led me to question whether the issue was on my end and how we could progress effectively.

My revelation came when speaking with a few other colleagues who had interacted with the same person, all seemingly wanting to say something but saying nothing. Canadians are not known for directness

To my surprise, my colleagues shared similar experiences with the same human “blockage” in our projects. This revelation allowed us to collectively acknowledge and understand the root of our stagnation. Working together with this newfound awareness, we sought ways to navigate through the challenges. This experience was a stark reminder of how a single person can inhibit flow, and this occurs in various contexts. The realization was not only validating but also empowering for us as a team, as we learned to adapt and overcome these hurdles together.

So, what exactly is this phenomenon of “flow”? And most importantly, how do you achieve it?

The concept of ‘flow’, often described as being ‘in the zone’, is a state of deep immersion and engagement in an activity, where time seems to vanish, and all that exists is the present moment. This psychological phenomenon, identified by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, is characterized by a feeling of energized focus, full involvement, and enjoyment in the process of an activity.

Flow is not just limited to the context of traffic or physical movement; it permeates various facets of our lives. In the context of work, for instance, flow manifests when we are deeply engrossed in a task, finding ourselves productive and creatively engaged, losing track of time. Similarly, in relationships, flow can be experienced during moments of profound connection and harmony, where conversations and interactions seem effortless and deeply satisfying.

Moreover, flow extends to personal development and leisure activities. Whether it’s pursuing a hobby, engaging in sports, or indulging in artistic endeavors, being ‘in the zone’ signifies a state where our skills align perfectly with the challenges we face, leading to a sense of fulfillment and joy.

Why flow is important

The significance of flow lies in its impact on our well-being and performance. In a state of flow, we are not only more productive and creative but also derive a greater sense of happiness and fulfillment. It’s a state where we feel at our best, fully alive and engaged, transcending the mundane and tapping into our true potential. Understanding and seeking flow, in various aspects of life, from work to personal relationships, can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced existence.

How do you know you’re flowing

So, how do you know you are in a state of flow? Well there are many characteristics. Here are just a few elucidation of what that means according to Csikszentmihalyi.

(I have provided the link to the book at the end of this post, if you wish to learn more but here are a listing of some of the characteristics of being in the zone — of flowing.)

1. Intense and focused concentration

In a state of flow, your attention is completely absorbed in the task at hand. Distractions fade away, and there’s a singular focus on the present activity.

2. Sense of ecstasy

Flow brings about a feeling of euphoria or profound happiness. It’s a state of being completely engrossed in what you are doing, to the extent that nothing else seems to matter.

3. Transformation of time

When you are flowing, your perception of time is altered. Hours can feel like minutes, and time seems to fly by due to deep engagement in the activity.

4. Intrinsic motivation

The enjoyment and challenge of the activity itself are the primary motivators, rather than external rewards.

5. Balance between skill level and challenge

The activity is neither too easy (leading to boredom) nor too difficult (causing anxiety). This tells us that flow occurs when there is a harmony between our skills and the challenge presented by the task.

6. A sense of control

In flow, there’s a feeling of personal control over the situation or activity. The challenges faced are manageable, and there’s a sense of confidence in our ability to succeed.

7. Immediate feedback

Engaging in an activity that provides instant feedback helps maintain the state of flow. Knowing how well one is performing in the moment facilitates adjustments and sustains engagement.

8. Merging of action and awareness

In this state, our actions and awareness are seamlessly integrated. There’s an innate understanding of what needs to be done, often without conscious thought.

9. Loss of self-consciousness:

Flow often involves a temporary loss of self-awareness. Concerns about ourself disappear, and the individual becomes one with the activity.

10. Feeling of satisfaction or accomplishment

Post-flow, there’s often a sense of achievement or fulfillment, reinforcing the sense that the time spent was valuable and meaningful.

These characteristics not only define the flow experience but also highlight its significance in enhancing life quality. When we experience flow, we feel that our time is utilized in a worthwhile manner, contributing to personal growth, skill enhancement, and overall well-being.

So you’re wondering — how does that work? I am no mind doctor but Csikszentmihalyi’s book, referenced here, is a good place to start if you’re looking for the next level thinking behind it. But I will touch on two aspects of the science behind why it just works.

The science of flow

The concept of ‘flow’ has intrigued psychologists, neuroscientists, and seekers of peak performance for decades. This enigmatic state represents moments when we achieve a high level of focus, productivity, and creativity.

But what exactly happens in our minds and bodies when we experience flow?

Understanding the science behind this phenomenon not only offers insight into human psychology and neurobiology but also provides practical knowledge for enhancing our personal and professional development. Lets’ unpack both the psychological aspects and neuroscientific findings related to flow. Hopefully this can help us unlock the secrets of this optimal state of being, revealing how it can transform our work, hobbies, and overall life experiences.

Psychology of flow involves deep immersion in an activity, marked by intense focus and a sense of control. This state feels effortless and rewarding, with time perception often altered. It’s achieved when a task’s challenge matches our skills. Neurologically, flow involves reduced prefrontal cortex activity, facilitating concentration and reduced self-awareness. It’s accompanied by neurochemicals like dopamine ( the same chemical that makes you feel good when people like your posts on Instagram or TikTok), enhancing mood and creativity. Flow enhances brain connectivity, fostering creative and problem-solving abilities.

The psychology of flow is like being completely absorbed in a good book. You’re so focused that the outside world fades away. You understand the plot, the characters feel real, and despite the complexity of the story, it feels effortless to follow.

Time flies by without you noticing. Neurologically, this happens because certain brain areas are less active, reducing distractions and self-consciousness.

Your brain also releases chemicals like dopamine, making the experience enjoyable and enhancing your focus. It’s a state where your brain’s connectivity increases, boosting creativity and problem-solving skills. You can say its about feeling good.

How do we achieve flow?

To experience flow in everyday life, consider these actionable steps. Many of these steps are no different than those used by high performing individuals, to achieve any given purpose. I have since printed these out as a way to remind myself sometimes that there are things within my control of keeping my flow going.

1. Set clear goals

Define what you want to achieve in your work or hobby. Make these goals specific and measurable. I always think the 2009 movie, Julie and Julia where the main character, Julie (played by Amy Adams) set a goal to cook all the recipes from Julia Child’s first cookbook within a year. This goal was not only clear and specific but also measurable, as it had a defined endpoint and a quantifiable objective. By setting such a goal, Julie, Adam’s character, was able to channel her passion for cooking into a structured challenge, providing a sense of direction and purpose. This kind of goal-setting can be incredibly effective for entering a flow state, as it allows for a focused pursuit and gives a tangible way to track progress and maintain motivation. In your own endeavors, whether in work or hobbies, aim for goals that are similarly well-defined and have clear criteria for success. This approach not only helps in achieving the goals but also enhances the journey towards them, making it more engaging and fulfilling. I expect its time to watch this movie again — for the 10th time!

2. Seek feedback

Actively seek or create situations where you can get immediate feedback on your performance. This could be through self-assessment, peer review, or other means. For example, my friend John, a straight shooter, is the person I turn to for input on any matters related to Ergonomics. Not only was it part of his major but he revels in creating formulas for optimal workspace efficiency and comfort. Having a reliable source like John for feedback is invaluable. Similarly, in your own pursuits, it’s important to identify individuals or resources that can provide you with timely and relevant feedback. This could be a colleague, mentor, online community, or even a tracking system that monitors your progress. The key is to have a mechanism that gives you an honest assessment of your performance, allowing you to adapt and grow.

3. Match challenges with skills

Choose tasks that are aligned with your current skill level but still offer a bit of a challenge to keep you engaged. I will be honest, I hate doing taxes. It causes me anxiety and really had been an inhibitor in starting side projects, here in Canada, where I am petrified of messing up my taxes because someone once told me a horror tax story. Now, I outsource all tax and accounting related work; I am not the expert and find experts to do that work. Similarly, if you are not good at something, find someone who is and keep flowing. This is not to say that you cannot aspire to that task one day but when something is not a match for your skills, acknowledge it and find the help you need.

4. Eliminate distractions

I am admittedly a neat freak, and for me, a clear workspace is essential for writing effectively. To create an environment conducive to concentration, I make it a point to eliminate any form of clutter or visible dust. This meticulous preparation is just part of who I am and how I function best. Similarly, you might have different distractions, such as constant interruptions. Managing these distractions could involve turning off notifications, seeking out a quiet space, or dedicating specific times for focused work. By intentionally shaping your environment to minimize interruptions, you not only invite the possibility of flow but also lay the groundwork for it to become a recurring, almost ritualistic part of your routine.

5. Practice mindfulness

In our technology-saturated world, the concept of being unreachable has become increasingly rare. Everyone appears to be just a message or call away, no matter where they are. This realization struck me profoundly many years ago while I was on vacation in Morocco, and sitting sipping overly sweet mint tea, at the edge of the Sahara Desert. There, amidst the vast expanse of sand and sky, I found a rare peace in being out of touch, allowing me to sit and truly be one with my thoughts.

These experiences underscore the importance of developing mindfulness to enhance concentration. In our constantly connected world, techniques like meditation become essential tools. Meditation, in its various forms, helps in training the mind to focus and redirect thoughts. It can be particularly effective in managing the distractions that technology and daily life throw our way. By regularly practicing mindfulness and meditation, you can cultivate a mental space where focus is enhanced, paving the way for deeper engagement in tasks and a greater likelihood of experiencing flow.

6. Enjoy the process

This is a given — enjoy what you do. Enjoy the process by immersing yourself in activities that truly captivate you. For me, beyond writing, it’s soap-making and gardening that have this magnetic effect. When I’m involved in these hobbies, time seems to melt away, and I find myself completely absorbed in the moment. This immersion is a testament to how engaging in activities that spark our passion can effortlessly transition us into a state of flow. When you choose tasks that resonate with your interests, you not only enjoy the process but also enhance your capacity for creativity and productivity, embodying the essence of flow.

7. Reflect and adjust

After completing a task, it’s important to engage in thoughtful reflection on the experience. Assess what aspects of the task went smoothly and which ones disrupted your flow. This self-analysis is crucial for fine-tuning your approach in future endeavors. Think of it in terms of company retrospectives, which are instrumental in organizational improvement. Applying this same principle to personal retrospectives can be equally beneficial.

The essential element in this process is self-honesty. Being truthful with yourself about your performance and challenges helps in identifying genuine areas for growth and implementing effective strategies for improvement.

By regularly practicing this introspection, you can continuously enhance your ability to enter and sustain a flow state, leading to more fulfilling and productive experiences.

Together, by incorporating these tips into your routine, you can create more opportunities to experience flow, enhancing both productivity and personal satisfaction.

In this discussion of understanding and achieving flow, several key takeaways emerge. Firstly, the conditions for flow are pivotal: clear goals, immediate feedback, a balance between challenges and skills, deep focus, a sense of control, and engaging in activities that are intrinsically rewarding. To integrate flow into daily life, actionable steps include setting specific and measurable goals, actively seeking feedback, ensuring tasks are well-matched to one’s skill level, minimizing distractions, and cultivating mindfulness through practices like meditation. Additionally, finding joy in the process itself by engaging in activities that spark personal passion and interest is crucial. These elements not only facilitate the achievement of flow but also enhance overall satisfaction and productivity in both personal and professional realms.

Flow on!

References and Further Reading

Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.

About me: Hello, my name is Kem-Laurin, and I am one half of the co-founding team of Human Tech Futures. I am currently pursuing a doctoral degree at the University of Waterloo. My research inquires into identity construction through contemporary case studies (judicial) that demonstrate how citizens’ data is collected and utilized. Whether data is illicitly harvested or willingly shared, the resultant algorithmic constructions wield immense power over users whose identities are quantified through information. My research objectives are to (1) develop a critical understanding that will then allow me to (2) produce concrete heuristic principles for use in AI powered design systems (as informed by my professional experience in systems design).

Professionally I practice as a Principal HCD Strategist and Design Thinking Coach. Prior, I led both small and large Design and Research teams at Blackberry Autodesk and also worked at Siemens in both Munich, German, Princeton, USA. In my spare time, I build layered gardens with a tropical vibe while my 135 pound GSD looks on. Today I feel blessed to have traveled to over 25 countries before the world transformed to what it is today; I was able to experience a good breadth of human experiences. Periodically, I give back as an active mentor to my students, and many burgeoning critically thinking HCD Researchers who seek to make the world a better place.