Productivity high
Which, according to a study, helps us get into the flow
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Opening the door for the postman, briefly scrolling through Instagram or reading a message from a friend – many things can take us out of our concentration. Then it is often difficult to get back into the “flow”. Which, according to research, can help.
For some, music is the right way to find productivity, for others it has to be absolute peace. How people get into the “flow” is often individual. It means that a person experiences utmost concentration and complete immersion in an activity. So something that would help many of us in everyday life. How often do we manage to laboriously finish an activity only after many interruptions? But don’t worry, you can restore the “flow”.
What you should know about the “flow”.
Psychologist Mark Tavers explains on “Psychology Today” that two things are particularly important:
- The belief that the flow state leads to success
- The confidence in being able to trigger the flow state yourself
On the one hand, it is helpful to perceive the flow as helpful and promising. On the other hand, people should believe that they have control over whether they reach this state or not – and that it is not left to chance, says Tavers. These people find it easier to consciously find a state of high concentration and to regain it even after interruptions.
What tricks help you flow?
As much as we would like it, multi-tasking is not a good option. If you want to complete a task, you should eliminate all possible distractions as much as possible. Turn off notifications or put your phone in another room. If you live with a person, talk to him:her about not wanting to be disturbed. Other people need music to keep them going at work. Also make sure you have enough water and take a break every now and then. Even when we are in flow, we should have time to eat something or switch off for a short time (preferably without looking at our cell phone).
These three points can help you find your own flow:
- Find out what you enjoy. Things that interest us are more likely to put us into a flow – if that’s not the case, keep the goal clear in mind. For example, that you will get money back when you complete the annoying tax return.
- Find out what time of the day you are most productive. For some this is early in the morning, while others prefer the afternoon, evening or even night. As a night owl, trying to get into the flow at six in the morning is difficult.
- Take care of rest. Working on something with great concentration for several hours drains your energy, even if you enjoy it. Find a time when you completely detach yourself from your task and do something else. Pick up a book, cook a meal or dedicate yourself to your partner.
The psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi proposed the flow theory in 1975. In flow, completing tasks feels “intrinsically rewarding” and people are not aware of how much time passes. And that’s fun!
Sources used: languages.oup.com, psychologytoday.com, positivepsychology.com, verywellmind.com