Cheat Sheet — Achieving Flow

decoding the optimal state of mind

A great description of flow from Jason Silva

Flow is an optimal state of consciousness in which people can perform tasks up to 5 times their normal ability. This short guide outlines the phases of flow and the key aspects that increase your ability to harness this state of mind for supercharged human performance, but before we get started lets get one thing straight. Having a growth mindset is the foundation of being able to harness this state of mind. People with a growth mindset understand that their talents and abilities can be developed through effort, good teaching and persistence. If this doesn’t sound like you, I would recommend getting comfortable with this mindset before proceeding.

The 3 Phases of Flow

Practice

This is where you spend time learning the skills you will need to perform in your flow state. If you don’t have the mental or physical tools to perform the desired task your brain won’t have the ability to execute when you need it to.

• Consistency, frequency and repetition boosts your ability to enter flow and perform at a high level while in it.
• Flow states can be achieved during this phase and can lead to quicker learning.

Jump

At some point you have to put your practice to work. The “Jump” is the point where you stop analyzing, doubting and thinking and just dive in.

• Prior to the jump it is common to feel anxiety.
• Seeking awe or inspiration before the Jump can enhance your flow state.

Flow

Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. To enhance the quality of your flow state incorporate the following flow enhancers to your activity.

• Aim about 5% above your actual skill level.
• Have clear goals defined for the task at hand.
• Look for immediate and constant feedback during the task.
• Embed high risk and/or consequences — mental, social or physical.
• Eliminate as many distractions as possible — concentration is key.
• Embed novelty, unpredictability and/or complexity in the task.
• If removed from flow it can be harder to re-enter than it was to originally enter the state. There is often a recovery period right after exiting flow.

This cheat sheet is based on personal experience & the work of a lot of other individuals. I’ve linked the most influential sources below. If you enjoyed this post please hit “recommend” below & follow me for future posts. @JaredJanes

More on the topic…

The Rise of Superman (Book), Flow, the secret to happiness (TED Talk)