I have a crazy life story but I can enter flow state easily and hours will pass by. I have trained mma my entire life before it was popular and no teachers. Self taught in almost everything including school. I had a computer since I was 8.
This concept may sound really absurd but I've experienced it many times! I realised that the more I try to control something to go my way (or a certain way), the more likely it won't go that way haha. But when we let the flow happen, I think it also helps us to improve our creativity and skill and challenge us to become more agile and tactile. In a spiritual PoV I think this has something to do with our attachment? Like the more we're attached to something, the more disappointed we can become (if we don't get it). But on the contrary, by not being attached we leave more space (and energy) to embrace things coming our way (and thus, enter flow together with them). Just my two cents :D
Agreed, it’s crazy, I wasn’t even looking for this video and it popped in my feed crazy enough, brand new post, the timing of it (flowed to me) was impeccable, this is a great start for the day.
@@mm-zn5hh Hey don't call yourself that haha. It's just an English term people use when they share their opinion. It means something like "Just my opinion" 😄
@@mm-zn5hh no you’re ok, it’s basically your option hence “your two cents” it’s away for them to put their narrative over yours and be rude which is absolutely disrespectful, everyone should be given a chance to speak and say what’s on their mind.
Interesting topic. What this video calls “stop trying”, I call “become calm”. --- I can WILL myself, into “becoming calm”. It took decades for me to REALIZE that “becoming calm” and “remaining calm”, are the KEY to an enjoyable existence. --- I’m 70-years-old. I have developed a profound understanding, that “challenging situations” are THE MOST IMPORTANT TIMES to remain “Calm”. As a youth, I was a believer in “Trying Hard”. --- If I only knew then, what I know now……. --- As a youth, I equated “Trying Hard” to “being as tense as I could be”. --- When I started Driving, I always clutched the steering wheel as tightly as I could, thinking that I was in “Highest Control” when I grabbed the tightest. Spoiler Alert: Man, was I WRONG!!! My Life changed profoundly at age 35, when I started my 17 years of “Old Time Fiddle Lessons”. --- I had “played” (if you wanna call it that) the fiddle for about 6 years PRIOR to the lessons. Just as in my youth, I grabbed the bow as tightly as I could, and moved my bowing arm as tightly as possible, worrying about every finger placement. Additionally I concentrated so intently on the “Mechanics”, I spent ZERO TIME listening to the SOUNDS I was making. --- On my very first lesson, I “played” a tune, after which my newfound Instructor said harshly, “You’re doing everything WRONG.” --- I never became a great Fiddle Player, but I vastly improved over the 17 years. I learned that “intensity” is NOT the “Solution”, but instead, the “Solution” is “CONTROL”. Further, “Control” is achieved with the “MINIMUM AMOUNT OF PHYSICAL STRENGTH”, NOT "the Maximum”. --- The Fiddle Lessons taught me to Drive, grabbing the steering wheel as LIGHTLY as possible. The “muscle pains” in the middle of my back while I drove, DISAPPEARED after I switched to a “Light Grip” on the steering wheel. CONCLUSION: What this Video calls “Stop Trying”, would more accurately be stated as “Stop Trying PHYSICALLY”, or, “CALM DOWN!!!” --- Keep your mind ALERT and FOCUSED. --- I found it somewhat challenging at first, to SEPARATE “Physical Calm” from “Mental Calm”. --- A Tip for “Being Physically Calm” but “Mentally Focused”: TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE! At least, DESIGNATE TIME to yourself, when your Cell Phone does not Dominate your life. Let your friends know that you will be UNAVAILABLE at certain times, and DISCOVER how GLORIOUS existence can be, WITHOUT a Cell Phone. Good Video.
@@richardwaters8278 Hi richardwaters8278! Thank you for the Comment! Here are more tips for “staying calm”. When faced with a challenge, SEARCH YOUR BODY FOR TENSION, and RELAX those body parts. --- The FIRST areas that become tense, are on your face: your jaw, your eyes, your forehead, and your lips. --- Calm down your mouth, so that your jaw and lips remains relaxed. Don’t let your jaw tighten up. Relax your eyes so that they remain calm. Don’t let your adversary read your emotions. --- Watch any hot Bluegrass band. Watch how LITTLE they bounce, watch how FLATFOOTED they stand, and how CALM their whole body remains, except for the fingers. --- Feet often tense up. UNCURL your toes, and RELAX your feet. --- Keep your head straight up, don’t tilt your head. Good posture improves your HEALTH. If you tilt your head, you’re sending a “subconscious” signal. --- Practice speaking WITHOUT MOVING YOUR ARMS. Keeping arms by your side as you speak, FEELS WEIRD, but does not LOOK WEIRD. Many Politicians are good at this skill. Summary: Nothing frustrates an Adversary as much, as remaining CALM and RELAXED. Search your body for tension, and RELEASE the tension. If you play a musical instrument, PRACTICE “Search and Destroy of Tension”. “Calm” can be LEARNED, but requires PRACTICE. Good Luck! Rock Reynolds (AKA: Roger Reynard)
Thank you for this comment. I am 26 years of age and have been "Trying Hard" all my life, i.e. being tense and forced especially in scary social situations and when the stakes are high. I will now try to "become & remain calm" ESPECIALLY during those situation where my natural instinct is to tense up and "Hold onto something as tightly as I could". Your comment gave me an insight that might just change my life. Thank you and much appreciated. Very good comment.
@@JuneJuneyJunJune Hi JuneJuneyJunJune! Thank you for the awesome Comment! I don’t get too many of those. It is inspiring to ME, that somebody actually PAID ATTENTION to what I wrote! JuneJuneyJunJune, a MAJOR THEME of my life, is that I learn the MOST PROFOUND LESSONS, as soon as I can’t use them anymore. --- After thousands of various-type baseball games, I FINALLY learned “How to Hit a Baseball”, when I was 53-years-old. I went to a “Batting Cage” in the 35-mph speed, and cranked the balls like never before. --- The KEY to “Batting”: DON’T STEP INTO THE BALL. The “Power” in the Bat, emanates in the Power of the “BODY TWIST”, NOT in “Stepping Forward”. --- “Stepping INTO the Ball”, DIMINISHES the timing of the TWIST (called “Torque”). Most powerful TWIST equals: TWIST the Back Foot Toe AND Front Foot Heel, ONLY. Boys and Girls SHOULD BE TAUGHT PROPER BATTING TECHNIQUE, as soon as they can pick up a bat. TWO MORE “BATTING TIPS”. --- First Tip. After Contact between the Ball and the Bat, IT IS NOT THE BATTER’S “JOB” TO LOOK AT THE BALL!!! It is the COACH’S JOB to watch the Ball, the BATTER’S JOB is to look at the BASE (to TIME the steps to the base), and also the BATTER’S JOB is to LISTEN to the Coach. --- Second Tip. A CALM BATTER with a straight head, will watch the Pitch, to the point that CONTACT IS MADE, between the Ball and the Bat. At the end of the Batter's swing, the Batter’s EYES should STILL BE FOCUSED ON THE “CONTACT POINT”, although the Ball is no longer there. AFTER THE SWING IS COMPLETE, the Batter should not look for the Ball, but should IMMEDIATELY FOCUS on First Base, and LISTEN to the Coach! Here is an aspect of “Muscle Movement”, I wish I would have known as a Child, that I just learned five years ago. --- A SINGULAR MUSCLE, can ONLY PROVIDE FORCE, in ONE DIRECTION, by “Contracting”. After a muscle CONTRACTS, the muscle CANNOT provide force in the Opposite Direction. --- THUS, ALL MUSCLES COME IN “PAIRS”. A “Muscle on top” to provide Force in one direction, is ALWAYS ACCOMPANIED by a “Muscle on the Bottom”, to provide Force in the Opposite Direction. --- (Kinda important to know, when you’re moving a bow across a Fiddle String) --- For instance, if your arm is straight, and then you move your hand up to your shoulder, bending your arm, it is the BICEPS, the muscle on TOP of your Upper Arm, that CONTRACTS, to provide the Force for that movement. The Muscle that provides the “contracting force”, is called an “Agonist” for that movement. --- The Muscle that would provide Force in the Opposite Direction, is called the TRICEPS, which is on the BOTTOM of the Upper Arm. When the straight arm hand is moved to the Shoulder, using the Force from the BICEPS, the TRICEPS is called the “Antagonist”, and needs to STAY OUT OF THE WAY, by relaxing. --- When moving the bent arm back to a straight configuration, the BICEPS and the TRICEPS SWITCH ROLES, with the TRICEPS becoming the “Agonist”, and the BICEPS becoming the “Antagonist”. --- MORAL OF THE STORY: When engaged in any physical activity (Sports, Music, Chores), in order to achieve “Flow State”, it is important to keep the “Antagonists” OUT OF THE WAY, resulting in an “Alternating Current” Mind-frame, NOT a “Direct Current, ALL Energy to ALL Muscles” Mind-frame. As always, JuneJuneyJunJune, after a decade of personal research AFTER my Fiddle Lessons, and FINALLY figuring out an effective way to CONTROL a “Fiddle Bow”, my left-hand “Ring Finger” and “Pinky” SLIGHTLY WEAKENED (nuthin’ painful), JUST ENOUGH so that I lost a significant amount of “Left Hand Control”, rendering my “Right Arm Epiphanies”, to currently be “Sitting on the Shelf”. Thanks again for the Inspiring Comment! Rock
I felt like this after praying to God and meditating and not gonna lie, not caring about the outcome of anything and not desiring anything, that profound feeling literally made me break down into tears. The power of spirituality
Real. I can relate to your feeling(s) on many occasions and each time I learn something fascinating! Check out the wim hof guided breathing video next time you meditate, I highly recommend it for achieving flow state naturally. Once you get it down, you can do it peacefully outdoors and embrace life ☀️
I came to this understanding today. Learning to leave everything in Jesus’s hands. It’s scary because I’m focusing on building my trust in God when the people the carried weight in my life all scarred me. How’s it going for you?
I just want to thank this channel for being there when I was in the lowest phase of my life. This year had been very tough for me.... I was preparing for an important exam... I had no job.. I used to see my friends progressing in their lives while my life had come to a stand still. It was too frustrating, spending my whole day studying at home and waiting for the results. This channel gave me the strength I needed to withstand this difficult situation... definitely saved me from falling into depression. My results are out now and I have topped the exam. I just wanted to share my story with you all and pray that whoever is struggling right now will definitely succeed. Just surrender everything to the universe and the universe will bring everything to you.
Thank you for your message! You described my situation atm. I'm happy it worked out for you. Mental work is very hard to do for hours and hours and days and days. And months and months of feeling overwhelmed... I'm trying to not wish this (life)time to pass, but enjoy it, or at least flow with it, it is very difficult though...
Congrats bro! I concur all you said is true. Struggling is part of life and makes you understand that it's all about letting go. Takes time, but one could later get it through suffering. Wish you all the best
Ive been playing music for 20 years, and making music for about 12 year's, and just recently learned that if i quit caring about criticism and just put out what I want i am more proud of my work and can take negative feedback so much better. Instead of looking at old projects as a failure i look at it as a way to improve
Don’t force anything - especially if u don’t want it. Flow with some thing u want, that will add value to your life ! .. great video dude once again 👏🏼👊
As a computer programmer, I regularly drop effortlessly into a flow state. The part in the video about too hard > anxiety and too easy > boredom resonates very strongly - I experience this weaving in and out of the flow state many times during a typical day. The really interesting thing with this relatively extreme example of a flow state is the loss of perception of the passing of time - without exaggeration, many hours can pass in what feels like a few minutes...
I have encountered the perception of time passing as well, usually either working on computer hardware where if I do not focus on it and just sort of go through the motions I have done so many times in the past, things just flow naturally and an hour of work seems like 10 minutes. I try to take a moment to appreciate it after it happens when I can.
@davedubuk I worked in IT for decades as a system manager. About 2 years ago, I was hired by a manager at a corporation to perform similar tasks and manage initiatives to what I have done previously in my 20+ year career. What I have found is that if I block out an hour or two, I usually cannot come up with _"brilliant solutions"_ but when I was taking the subway home or relaxing on the weekend, an idea would pop into my mind and I'd have to create a process flow or some other notes. Well, apparently, my former manager was either a genius at all times and didn't work the way I did, or he just didn't trust me and my results, but he thought I was ineffective in my role and as a result, I was terminated from the role. (Side note, I feel very relaxed for this past month 😆). Some managers understand that there is a creative aspect to problem solving and solutioning that is not necessarily _"on demand",_ even though the deliverables are not even late.
I can find that drawing something, until i get tired. And colouring with crayons (I'm 70 have have been a university instructor of anatomy and stats for 16 years, but I do love colouring!). Same with altering an image with Photoshop. All too easy to get involved with slight changes of a shape or shades, perhaps past what is needed.
This is just the truth, a hidden truth, an unknown known, a difficult yet easily achievable wonder, so paradoxical and so valuable. Thank you for communicating something seemingly uncommunicable so comprehensively. You are wonderful ❤️
I experience the flow state when I'm playing drums, guitar, bass guitar, dancing, playing any sport, playing my favourite video game, when I'm meditating, when I'm talking about spirituality to people, when I'm out in the garden doing heavy labor or when I'm doing a workout. In a way, I kind of constantly strive for the flow state. This started from a very young age after experiencing that feeling playing football. As I got older I wanted to feel that in everything I do.
This channel's videos on Wu Wei, Daoism, and related topics honestly changed my life. I am dealing with a host of mental issues, Autism being the least of them. For a long time, this meant I had a hard time dealing with everyday tasks such as cleaning, cooking etc. My home looked like, pardon the invective, shit. And living in a ugly, inefficient environment didn't do my mental state no favors. Then I saw that video and contemplated Wu Wei. Ended up even buying a translation of Dao De Jing and Zuan ZI. And started cleaning, sorting, throwing away. Bought myself a drill so I could hang up some little hooks to hang stuff on. Biked to the recycling center daily for a while. And now I live in a quite charming apartment. And have switched to a partly vegetarian diet that is both healthier, cheaper and tastier than the eggs-and-bacon-for-lunch-TV-dinner-for-supper diet I had before. Also lost weight. Went from obese to what barely qualifies as a dad bod. That was never even a goal. it just happened. TLDR: Thanks.
I have experience with Flow in three areas. 1) Playing golf on an elite level. 2) Performing work linked to SOPs and human interaction. 3) Writing or talking about a subject of interest. In all situations, I gained expert/senior/mentor status with confidence in doing the task and open-minded and flexible to adapt the knowledge to complex circumstances and contexts. I was at ease and made necessary adjustments as the present objective highlighted my focus to achieve total harmony of body and mind. The key for me has been not to be afraid to fail or too eager to perform. Keep staying in a positive, relaxed, and comfortable mood with a balanced arousal level.
For me, driving is my flow state. I never overthink when I drive. I just drive. I think it just comes from a place of certainty and confidence in my driving skills. I'm as comfortable driving to a nearby store as I am driving in unfamiliar places, be it day or night. I experience the same flow state when I cook. It's just natural to me. My overthinking area is weight loss and food. That's when I have all kinds of worries like "am I eating right?", "am I not eating too much?", "am I eating right foods?", etc. This is a great video, thank you!
one of the key component that i find in my life useful to reach such a state is to be at peace with my own life, and letting in a way the path to resolve for it self after all i know where i am heading, all i have to do is to live it and stay true to my own goals
I've had this experience several times. As a child, I used to love cycling. Angry, sad, happy, sick, I'd cycle all the same. I've got so much experience that now I can think of something else while cycling. I have muscle memory of sorts and navigating traffic doesn't even require effort as my mind very quickly and easily makes the decisions on what to do. No joke, I've cycled many kilometers while pondering on some conversation I had and reached my destination safely without being in danger of an accident once. In a similar way, I had an exam this Feb and I hadn't studied at all till like 3 days before. So now I have sat down and just go, well, time to study. I don't think about anything else, there's nothing else occupying my time and attention, no other thoughts, just me and the topic in front of me that I need to study. I complete 2 chapters and decide to take a break. To my surprise, 3 hours have passed. I didn't even check my phone once, because I didn't need it while studying. I scored 97.5% in that exam. So I would agree that the best way is to stop overthinking. Focus on the task and nothing else. If the flow comes, good, if not, oh well. Either way, you are going to do the task and you are going to do it as best as you can. Like in case of writing, all I think about in that state is what is the next scene or what is the next piece of dialogue to be written. Before I know it, an hour has passed and I'm staring at 1000 words on the doc.
Your driving example was something I can relate to. I enjoyed the ability to turn my overthinking off so much that Ive started driving competitively several years ago. I am constantly chasing the upper state of flow while on track, but most of the time it evades me due to external stimulations such as discussions before getting in the car, change of weather or vehicle condition. Other times, its things that have no relation to the event such as family or financial situations. Its difficult to turn a lot of those things off because I have an internal struggle with my inner-character fundamentally caring about those things. I have a hard time letting go and worry creeps in to my over-analytical mind. Still trying new things such as stimulation triggers for activating the flow state, slow-retreats into solitude before the events, training in every emotional state, etc. A couple years ago, your channel has helped me adopt a daoist philosophy which helped me, my family and everyone I come into contact with tremendously in all aspects of life. For that I want to say thank you. ♥
I experienced flow state yesterday while driving. It was the lack of bad traffic, distracting music and the presence of beautiful nature that made me achieve it. I never felt so happy in a long time.
It's a weird but surprisingly true theory I have that whenever I expect something to happen too much it is bound to not happen, while when I let my guard down and just go with things without expecting anything that's when the most unexpected events happen to me. Also that when I expect something to go well it is definitely not gonna go well while whenever I expect something to fail it somehow does well. So I'm constantly in the "expect failure to win" state. For instance, when I expect to run into someone on my way out, I don't. But the days I let my guard down I bump into all sorts of people I don't want to run into. So whenever I leave the house I continuously expect to see someone I know in my head so that I won't run into them somehow. Sounds really absurd, but it works for me for some reason!
I think it's this: you can't activate the flow state. The flow state is about feeling the reality around you. The key word is feeling. Feel the action flowing. Know what they are knowing. Observe what they are showing. Forever feel it flowing.
00:30 🧠 Mastery is more than skill; it's about the union of intention and action, where mind and body harmonize to achieve a flow state. 01:53 🌊 The flow state isn't forced; it arises when you're relaxed and clear-minded, embracing it rather than chasing it. 04:20 🚗 Driving can trigger a flow state: overthinking causes anxiety, while letting go brings a sense of unity with the road. 08:03 🧩 The flow state involves intense concentration on a challenging, rewarding task, merging action and awareness, altering time perception. 10:59 🤯 Psychic entropy, caused by inner chaos and distraction, prevents entering the flow state; worry and multitasking scatter attention. 14:46 🌟 Flow activities, with clear goals and immediate feedback, facilitate flow experiences by challenging and transforming the self. 17:39 🌌 The flow state emerges when you stop trying too hard and immerse yourself fully in the task; finding balance and enjoying the process are key.
The state of flow is taught to us primary school teachers in our education. It's challenging to provide instruction that gives all the children an optimal condition for growth, but it's definitely worth working towards it.
Kids naturally exist in flow state, social conditioning, setting expectations and requirements, telling them what things are instead of them figuring it out for themselves is what leads them out of those states and into thoughts.
I've had this numerous times and technology is also really bad for sustaining flow. You get there and a text comes in and you're out again. Nothing more frustrating, especially if things are piling up bc you've been struggling to get things done.
Flow state has been described similarly to the experience of certain drugs as "transient hypofrontality" essentially, you're no longer using the frontal lobe of the brain to control your actions, but using 'instinct', which is far faster. Meditation, and the ability to shut down, or at least quiet your own superfluous thoughts will help you in this regard.
I know this sounds crazy but this explains why I was so over the top anxious before surgery and calm and relaxed (naturally) sitting in the pre-op cubicle. I didn’t quite understand why I felt calm after weeks of gut-wrenching anxiety. I think I must have let go and was in the moment preparing to go into the OR which put me in a state of flow. Huh! Who would have thought that would have happened right before surgery!
@marilyn111111 I have encountered similar! I'm usually rushing around weeks before, trying to fix up my home (that i previously ignored for months or years), take care of other stuff I have put off, all the while cursing myself (seriously I stuff I call myself) 😞 and I go into a downward spiral. Once I get to the admitting office, my blood pressure is either normal or even below! (My "normal" for the past 10 years is 145/90, with medication, and can spike up to 195 or 200 as the top number 😳) Anyway, it has shown me that I am able to bring my blood pressure down if I keep calm and do deep breathing. 🙂
How incredibly interesting to read about the flow! I am an artist and I experience the flow on a regular basis. I can work for hours on my art without getting hungry or bored or even remembering anything else in my life. The time flies so fast that after 6 hours straight I feel like only an hour passed. Often my husband calls and remind me to eat so my sugar doesn't get too low. I wish many more people would experience it. It brings so much peace to my life.
I’ve driven tractor trailers for 22 years. I love it. Being alone, listening to thousands of audiobooks. When I learned to be in the flow, othes driving shitty no longer bothers me. I’m proud of you for learning the fine art of driving.
Great comment. I know what you mean. I drove ambulances and fire appliances for a few years and the concentration required took me to a whole new level of awareness. there was nothing else in the world or my mind than the task of safely piloting the vehicle and crew to the scene as quickly as possible. I've never experienced such a strong state of flow since those days. I miss it very much.
Your personal example of driving is what I'm experiencing right now! I'm in my late 30s and just started learning driving and it is difficult to me because I worry too much and think too much while driving. So even after 1 year more of driving, I still make some mistakes here and there and need my wife's supervision while I drive...Thank you so much for this video and I will continue to practice driving, stop worrying and thinking too much and hopefully can reach the flow state in driving :)
I had the dozen lessons at 17 - but had to have the mechanics explained, I couldn't just do as I was told, I had to visualise the gears, differ, the whole schematic of the mechanics. I didn't pursue driving again for another decade, and took 3 attempts to pass. The third test I thought I'd failed after the first 30 seconds, so just got on with it! Good luck with the driving, it's a challenge for over thinkers
Oml I have to take driver refresher/defencive driving courses soon because I haven’t driven in ages and it’s so stressful. If there weren’t so many vehicles on the road, I would feel better about it.
I have experienced the flow state many times, particularly while reading, writing, or playing games like chess or cricket. To me, it's the state of being fully engaged in the activity without letting thoughts interfere and it happens all of a sudden that you don't even have a chance to see it either there~ I think the "me" disappears at that moment and the soul enriches the act.
something that has always spoke to me and get me into flow state is piano, i don’t worry about anything and i genuinely enjoy the process of making songs and just playing it play, not for money, not for the outcome, not for anyone else, i play just to play because it makes me feel best and i think THAT is the most important in achieving flow state and success in general
Flow happens when there is no resistance. Self acceptance, acceptance of other people, of circumstances, of the life as it is. Sometimes the conditions are just right to be in the flow and it happens effortlessly. But sometimes we are unable to see beyond our limitations and need to work on them to let them fall and free the way to flow...
Whenever any of my meditation students were trying too hard, I would give them this exact advice - once you stop trying to stop thinking, thoughts will cease. Pure intention is strong enough to begin, and what follows is just gentle concentration.
When one delves even deeper in Eastern philosophy and spirituality i.e. Taoism/Buddhism the concept of Flow and its Understanding is enhanced, Its like a spark of Intuition ,I tend to think that Eastern philosophy was and is far ahead of its time compared to Western philosophy but that is not to discredit the significance and the position of Western philosophy ,Generally when one experiences flow it leaves a sense of craving for more only to forget that you cannot control its happening and its emergence ,but its really sweet with a less likelihood of being reduced into logic ,the most satisfying experience 💯💯
You are by far my favorite channel nowadays. I feel like every other people I watch are trying to take something from me. You on the contrary always gives me something. Thank you.
I have had psychedelic experiences mixed with my Photography where I have become completely absorbed in my work. The experience is insane as my senses become so heightened and finely tuned that I feel like an aperture for creativity to flow. Flow state feels like opening up to the world to be completely present without any baggage or boundaries, to become one with the subject and process, a place of pure ecstasy ❤️🙏
Up to fairly recently, I used to be a very analytical and planning-type of thinker. After I learned to be in the present, instead of reliving fears from the past or worries for the future, life became a lot easier. In fact, I find myself in the flow doing activities that I previously became unable to do, paralyzed by a mix of boredom and sense of pointlessness. By observing my own thinking I am now able to detect when my own thoughts are carrying me away. Not being the thinker, but more or less a third person observing the thinker is very liberating. When this mental stress is reduced to a minimum, it is much easier to be in the flow.
This was probably the most subtle and honest video about the flow state. Just like he said, "you don't have to get into flow state by yourself but rather allow the flow state into you". This is probably the most accurate explanation of flow state. The psychic entropy explains about thoughts and distractions that come into your mind while you are trying to engage yourself in doing some task. TBH for me when I am doing something that I have genuine interest in, the flow state kicks in as soon as I start that work. But when I am forcing myself to do something that I don't like but has high reward, the flow state is really hard to get in.
The flow state is a balance. As a goalie and diagnosed high functioning autistic person, there is a way to make time stretch, it doesn't work the same for others, they don't see it, but everything is known and the best choice made before everything is understood, then you are where you should be to be where you wanted.
This concept resonates with me as I am musician (percussionist) and being in the flow state is the optimal way to play. As soon as the mind starts overworking, that's when the "wheels come off".
Just recently my childhood friend's significant other was stuck in Firenze without healthcare, when she fell ill. Offered my friend for us to drive her home from Budapest, because a.) I like driving more often than not, and b.) I wanted to be part of the solution to this challenging problem. We started going at 5:30, with about 6 hours of sleep. During the trip, I lost track of time pretty much all through out Slovenia. After arriving in Italy, I can hardly recall what happened until we reached the great tunnels that lead through the peninsula into Firenze. What Misi described in his book feels rather fitting to what I've experienced here. I had zero worries about us making it or not, it was all a matter of "when". After we picked up her girl, we immediately set off home. In the final 3 hours of the trip, I lost my capability to enter back into flow, due to becoming physically tired. That's when I put some music on a JBL. The rest of the trip was more conscious, as I was fending off tiredness. Didn't want help with taking the reins over, because I wanted to conquer the 2000km drive. We arrived home at 1AM the next day. It was 20 hours of focus total. Without flow, the trip would have been impossible for me. My parents still can't believe we made it in one go. 🙂 Suppose it helped that I'm a huge introvert, so wasn't engaging in much conversations on the trip.
i pray that the person reading this learns to let go and just be..embrace the flow state. come out of your head and gently into your heart. have a lunch with your self enjoy yourself and your existence. let all that you wish flow to you abundantly. having the wisdom to permanently keep and manage all that you wished for!! happy MANIFESTING gang⭐️⭐️⭐️💐❤️❤️❤️
It happened to me last week when I was swimming. I was practising my breathing and arm stroke in free style. In fact, I only focused on how get things right, to get the 'rhythm' between intake, outtake, and arms stroke. No speed, no power, only focused on techniques. Relax and slow. I wasn't even thinking nor remembering about the flow state. and then, it happened. There is one 50 meter lap I finished without even realising it. As if time skipped or (I think) my subconscious took over my body. I was in automatic mode. Somehow, in way, a spiritual journey, and It felt so good!
many years ago, I drove through northern Scotland during some snow. The highway was blanketed in about 30cm of snow such that the road surface could not be seen. There were no street lights and my windscreen had iced up such that I could only look out a small patch of ice free windscreen through which I could just see the red lights of the cars ahead of me. An earlier vehicle had driven ruts into the snow and I was driving in them, as were the 5 cars ahead of me. I could not pull over to clear my windscreen as I could not see where the side of the road was. All 6 cars began to drive as one, none overtook the other but instead all keeping the same speed and braking together like a snake wending its way over a snow covered road all the while I was peering through this small ice free patch of glass. My friend had fallen asleep in the passenger seat and rather than becoming worried, I just let myself react without thinking to the cars ahead of me. I drove like this for 4 hours before we finally reached the outskirts of Edinburgh and I could pull into a service station for fuel..
When I was a Kid i reached Flow by playing Videogames and solving Rubiks cubes. 4 years ago I discovered Flowarts and it became my favorite thing to do ever since. Just being one with a staff or a Ropedart and performing challanging dances are the most meditative thing I have ever experienced.
Thank you very much for the video! I'm 48 years old and i'm learning to drive now, and i 'm having a similar expericience.... One of my Hobbies is photography and sometimes i feel like i have this flows experiences when i go take pictures, it feels like i am connected to the nature or the place i am shooting... For me it happens when i relax and focus on what i am doing in the moment, the thing is that jus happens from time to time....
I'm 36 and would like to book driving lessons but I'm such an overthinker I really struggle with it! I have tried many times, but I will try again...and try these things ❤
Thank you for yet another amazing video 😊😊❤ Edit: To add, flow is found in being(doing what feels natural, out of your mind and into your body) . You don't have to think about it ,you just do it and find yourself moving through it. The more you force ,the further away you are from it... so I think grounding yourself in the present and just being. I feel like flow is also associated with having trust for oneself.
That's a really good insight, I believe. The state of just 'being' as opposed to 'doing' is probably a pre-requisite for entering the flow state. Thanks!
No is the opposite. Just try and don’t worry about doing or getting stuff done. Ease into the state rather than forcing. I’m a yoda fan and this is what his philosophy too generally points to, except in this case I feel
Great video! As someone who is also prone to overanalyzing and overthinking, this is helpful information to getting into a flow state! Solitude is underrated and essential!
I am making this comment before finishing the whole video, adhder here I will forget it if I dont comment now. I am at the part that you are saying that when you desire to drive well seased you eventually drove well. Its not your desire that was seased but your fear , you desire started to compensate your belief that you are not a good driver. You wouldn't desire to drive well if tou wasnt afraid you cant. Its like you have an internal belief that says , I will be a good driver when I will complete x years of driving. This hypothesis might be completely wrong or on the other hand some therapy and inner work would benefit you, despite you are making all those wonderful videos and feel like a very grounded person with analytical thinking and higher intelligence
perhaps ironically, i think a good way to get a feel for flow state is to indulge in psychedelic substances. you must allow the substance to essentially take control of your body and allow it to run its course and not try to control it. this is what allows for interpersonal revelations and how to avoid bad trips
When focusing more with your senses, you focus less on your thoughts. One definition of flow is a lack of thoughts. Enjoyment helps you focus on what you're doing.
It's worth mentioning that the flow state can be trained. Not only so that it becomes easier to reach and hold on to, but also to deepen it in ways you cannot even describe. The tool is meditation.
Thought provoking video. I find one of the most concrete ways to study the flow state, is in some kind of somatic learning. Somatic intelligence. This could be something like learning a new physical skill, martial arts, learning to play a piano. There's some balance between effort, and letting go. Somatic skills, is one way of holistically taking one out of one's mind (mental chatter). In the case of the piano, one starts with micro skills, like doing one's scales. This then becomes automated, becomes unconscious competency, whereby one can build on top of it, higher level skills, such as playing a melody. It can actually be quite systematic. The right effort, at the right time. And letting go at the right time, when something becomes automatic. One cannot rush things. One has to listen to one's body. It's not simply the mind telling it what to do, but a kind of listening, feeling into all the different elements involved. It's a kind of dance amongst the various elements, too complex for the purely discursive mind to understand.
The enjoyment is what prevents me, It's been a while since I made a decision to focus on what I enjoy and be immersed, and now I know that the enjoyment is the key to be in my flow
Sometimes during a long session of reading or making art I find myself in a flow state but I snap out of it when I realise in I'm a flow state and get excited. It annoys me but I eventually go back into flow
The discussion gives me insight into the dichotomy of influencing and reflecting (e.g. talking and listening). Neither embodies the complete description or influence that _flow_ may characterize within us, but rather exemplifies choices made to affirmatively control our future, with an acknowledgement to the benefits of _flow_ against both the negative states of anxiety and boredom.
This video is awaken my flow state, thank you! I was struggling without realising to something that I was holding on miserably and then light bulb comes in the midst of listening to this. Incredible!! 🙏❤️ thank you
When I am turning a piece of wood on a lathe, I can find myself stepping back from it to find hours have gone past and the piece is completed without really feeling the time go by. I am aware of every moment and conscious of the hazards inherent in a piece of wood spinning at 2-3K RPM in front of me but the time isn't weighing on me at all. It's like a few moments of total focus have gone past in a matter of hours as measured on the clock. The satisfaction at creating beautiful things, even when they aren't as beautiful as I might have hoped, is always there at the end. I am slightly sad to step away. I wish I could hold onto the experience a little longer. Until the next piece.
I've experienced the flow state while trekking in Nepal. Pack on, booted up and completely lost in the joy of complex coordination, calculating angles, textures, lost in the trail. Meanwhile my body is purring along, regulating breathing, blood pumping, muscles flexing, tendons stretching. And above it all, an appreciation of this amazing symphony of physical and mental abilities. I'm not sure how it really begins, possibly physically at first and then your mind catches up and gets into it. It doesn't last long (perhaps 20 mins to 45) but somewhat surprising to see the beautiful results.
I've heard this philosophy explained by several different people, but with your explanation I now understand. Thank you for your channel & sharing your knowledge.
I agree with you!! Money actually grow on trees but only on trees that was planted by you!! These tress are referred to as investments. How you diversify your investment portfolio matters
Diversification is the key. My portfolio is well diversified with the help of a financial adviser. This helps me make more than +400% monthly on my investments.
I'm intrigued by this. I've searched for financial advisers online but it's kind of hard to get in touch with one. Okay if I ask you for a recommendation?
I've experimented with a few over the past years, but I've stuck with ‘’Angela Lynn Schilling” for about five years now, and her performance has been consistently impressive. She’s quite known in her field, look her up.
Spot on. I find I’m in flow when I’m learning something new at work. I can pour into the topic and time flies by while I am tinkering. When I gain new understanding I am excited and eager to do more and more.
I experienced this while doing a simple exercise with a sword, repeatedly bringing the blade down in front of me. The novelty started to wear off. Muscle memory engaged & I needed minimal attention to maintain the correct posture. Suddenly, the blade came down with extra speed & force. It was hard to believe that the proper form could make such a huge difference.
Some days ago I went to a rural property. There were chickens and dogs simply living without any kind of stress. In Italian it is called “spensierati”, without preoccupation. I learned a lot from them. I
This is pretty good stuff. Certainly resonates with me. Although there are obstacles real and perceived, your personal flow can help to navigate and differentiate. There is no one way to live and learning and understanding your own flow can really be beneficial. I think there is a stoicism about it in me. Cannot speak for others.
Thank you for explaining the flow state so well and so elegantly through your example of driving. I could never relate to flow state before because all the previous attempts were using examples of high-achieving athletes or artists, and that was unrelatable. I love driving though, and now I know why. Another flow state that comes easily to me is playing with children (or adults that let themselves play like children). Your explanation also helps me understand what happens in a new setting. Like driving is to you, to me it's my psychotherapy training. Before I started to practice with my first clients I was overanalyzing and fretting how I would apply what I've learned. But when I sat across from the person and we connected, something magical happened and the process just flowed. Most of the time. Each time I would get in my head and searched for a solution for a moment the magic was gone. As I would tell my self, Let go of the search, the magic would return. And it continued to happen this way every time I would sit in that chair and connect with an open heart to another human.
Another great essay on topic already covered. Very interesting and giving me perspective I had not considered. What blocks me from my flow state is trying my best to be what others think I should be. I just need to be the best me and let go what others think. Be well
Congratulations on getting your license brother at 29 I just got mine too don't rush you learn valuable lessons with waiting. For example I never feel like speeding because I've always ridden a bus my whole life So just getting somewhere in a timely manner is such a privilege. Failed my test once . Good to hear similar experiences. Take care and don't rush. Things will come. Went from a Bus to a Lexus keep your head up!
I am an artist and the things I do to enter the flow are essential for the fact of receiving a quiet mind. Having ADHD, it is needed to slow time down. We dwell too much on what has happened and no longer matters for the reason to wonder about what will happen due to what has happened. Creativity is channeling all those feelings into something to admire and stay in the present moment while understanding that effortlessly, a work of art we bring to life. Never try to improve your skill. Through passion that is followed, your skill improves itself by experience.
Besides all said in the video, which I agree, I find the curiosity as something which triggers my flow. I mean, if I don't have the childish like curiosity about something, I think it's impossible to get to the flow state doing it. I mean, if I have to do something just because I have to do it, without any curiosity, I'll get it done, but not in a flow state.
I won’t forget the line of Herman Hesse’s book Siddhartha. “What could I say to you that would be of value, except that perhaps you seek too much, that as a result of your seeking you cannot find.” There are other teachings in this book that relate to the state of flow. The author compares non-action as the force of a stone, sinking into the river. The stone reaches its end goal effortlessly, without struggling. I often think of this quote and wonder what I should do to achieve this state. It is interesting that you refer to it as the “flow”, like the current of water working with gravity. I think that I found the answer to it while watching this, what I should do. It seems like the answer would be nothing.
Art/drawing gets me into flow state on just about the daily but how you spoke of driving, no one I know seems to get it. I love to go on solo road trips or hours long drives, it’s almost like a meditation to me. Windows down, wind rushing and flowing all around, with and without music and great views. Peace. Just wish it didn’t take so long to get anywhere that isn’t flat.
Your content is absolutely refreshing, insightful and thought provoking! It has reignited my interest in researching various philosophical ideologies such as Taoism, stoicism etc. I couldn’t agree more that solitude does create a conducive environment for the flow state. When I was very young I’d get lost in books for hours as I’d have to be on my own a lot. And even as an adult, I deeply enjoy time alone and I tend to get better at things when I spend time alone - but ironically, I appear very extroverted around people or at least the right ones. However, I’ve realized that I’ve gotten into flow states amidst chaos such as while dancing or djing etc. It feels as though the world doesn’t exist. I also experience the flow state during intellectual activities such as problem solving with coding, writing or researching an interesting topic. It feels as though things are working almost effortlessly and ideas are connecting with ease - you almost don’t want to stop doing the activity.
Getting into a flow state is just a matter of practice and some persistence, not some wondrous thing. The state may last for a few minutes followed by then hours and eventually months.
I’ve been playing guitar for about a decade now and always struggle to find the flow. I think of every technicality in my playing to the point I’m not even feeling the music. Accessing the flow state is what makes a great musician, a working progress
I enjoy the idea of eliminating the distractions that we are enamored with in today’s digital world. Much easier to get into a flow state while in the physical world and nature especially
Nice video, for the people interested in this topic I suggest looking into "clutch" as well, it complements the arguments of this video and even corrects a few innacuracies when talking about the influence of the "effort" factor and how it helps to distinguish the specific characteristics of "flow" and "clutch" mindsets.
I needed to see this, I've started a new job, and tomorrow will be responsible for the whole shift after 4 days of interrupted and sporadic training - I was relaxed for those days, and surprised myself by not panicking - but now I'm totally getting in my own head, fretting about scenarios that may never happen, and generally undermining my composure!
We are always trying to compare with others to be better. Be yourself and let things happen when we have no control. I am always creating scenarios in my head and overthinking is killing my thought.
I’m actually reading this book right now and this was very helpful video in understanding flow and psychic entropy. Lately, I have been cooking and trying out different recipes from several cookbooks. I definitely feel a sense of flow when I’m present and being properly challenged whereas before, I would cook the same type of dish without much enthusiasm, intention or thought behind it. Now I’m excited to cook and try new things!
"it is not something to attain but rather something to allow "
You summed it up so well. Thank you !🎉
I have a crazy life story but I can enter flow state easily and hours will pass by. I have trained mma my entire life before it was popular and no teachers. Self taught in almost everything including school. I had a computer since I was 8.
@joshderto9086 respect man.
stop forcing, not stop trying.
nailed it!
Don't try but do
trying can inevitably lead to forcing, do it with your own will and go on with the moment
Stop trying is right, just be, accept it, there is no need to try anymore
Be it and embody it lovingly wholeheartedly ...
See what works well ...
This concept may sound really absurd but I've experienced it many times! I realised that the more I try to control something to go my way (or a certain way), the more likely it won't go that way haha. But when we let the flow happen, I think it also helps us to improve our creativity and skill and challenge us to become more agile and tactile. In a spiritual PoV I think this has something to do with our attachment? Like the more we're attached to something, the more disappointed we can become (if we don't get it). But on the contrary, by not being attached we leave more space (and energy) to embrace things coming our way (and thus, enter flow together with them). Just my two cents :D
Agreed, it’s crazy, I wasn’t even looking for this video and it popped in my feed crazy enough, brand new post, the timing of it (flowed to me) was impeccable, this is a great start for the day.
You got it, spot on
Sorry for asking this, but what does "my two cent" mean? I know I'm dumb for not knowing this.
@@mm-zn5hh Hey don't call yourself that haha. It's just an English term people use when they share their opinion. It means something like "Just my opinion" 😄
@@mm-zn5hh no you’re ok, it’s basically your option hence “your two cents” it’s away for them to put their narrative over yours and be rude which is absolutely disrespectful, everyone should be given a chance to speak and say what’s on their mind.
Interesting topic. What this video calls “stop trying”, I call “become calm”.
--- I can WILL myself, into “becoming calm”. It took decades for me to REALIZE that “becoming calm” and “remaining calm”, are the KEY to an enjoyable existence.
--- I’m 70-years-old. I have developed a profound understanding, that “challenging situations” are THE MOST IMPORTANT TIMES to remain “Calm”.
As a youth, I was a believer in “Trying Hard”.
--- If I only knew then, what I know now…….
--- As a youth, I equated “Trying Hard” to “being as tense as I could be”.
--- When I started Driving, I always clutched the steering wheel as tightly as I could, thinking that I was in “Highest Control” when I grabbed the tightest. Spoiler Alert: Man, was I WRONG!!!
My Life changed profoundly at age 35, when I started my 17 years of “Old Time Fiddle Lessons”.
--- I had “played” (if you wanna call it that) the fiddle for about 6 years PRIOR to the lessons. Just as in my youth, I grabbed the bow as tightly as I could, and moved my bowing arm as tightly as possible, worrying about every finger placement. Additionally I concentrated so intently on the “Mechanics”, I spent ZERO TIME listening to the SOUNDS I was making.
--- On my very first lesson, I “played” a tune, after which my newfound Instructor said harshly, “You’re doing everything WRONG.”
--- I never became a great Fiddle Player, but I vastly improved over the 17 years. I learned that “intensity” is NOT the “Solution”, but instead, the “Solution” is “CONTROL”. Further, “Control” is achieved with the “MINIMUM AMOUNT OF PHYSICAL STRENGTH”, NOT "the Maximum”.
--- The Fiddle Lessons taught me to Drive, grabbing the steering wheel as LIGHTLY as possible. The “muscle pains” in the middle of my back while I drove, DISAPPEARED after I switched to a “Light Grip” on the steering wheel.
CONCLUSION: What this Video calls “Stop Trying”, would more accurately be stated as “Stop Trying PHYSICALLY”, or, “CALM DOWN!!!”
--- Keep your mind ALERT and FOCUSED.
--- I found it somewhat challenging at first, to SEPARATE “Physical Calm” from “Mental Calm”.
--- A Tip for “Being Physically Calm” but “Mentally Focused”: TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE! At least, DESIGNATE TIME to yourself, when your Cell Phone does not Dominate your life. Let your friends know that you will be UNAVAILABLE at certain times, and DISCOVER how GLORIOUS existence can be, WITHOUT a Cell Phone.
Good Video.
Awesome comment, thank you legend 🙏
@@richardwaters8278
Hi richardwaters8278! Thank you for the Comment!
Here are more tips for “staying calm”.
When faced with a challenge, SEARCH YOUR BODY FOR TENSION, and RELAX those body parts.
--- The FIRST areas that become tense, are on your face: your jaw, your eyes, your forehead, and your lips.
--- Calm down your mouth, so that your jaw and lips remains relaxed. Don’t let your jaw tighten up. Relax your eyes so that they remain calm. Don’t let your adversary read your emotions.
--- Watch any hot Bluegrass band. Watch how LITTLE they bounce, watch how FLATFOOTED they stand, and how CALM their whole body remains, except for the fingers.
--- Feet often tense up. UNCURL your toes, and RELAX your feet.
--- Keep your head straight up, don’t tilt your head. Good posture improves your HEALTH. If you tilt your head, you’re sending a “subconscious” signal.
--- Practice speaking WITHOUT MOVING YOUR ARMS. Keeping arms by your side as you speak, FEELS WEIRD, but does not LOOK WEIRD. Many Politicians are good at this skill.
Summary: Nothing frustrates an Adversary as much, as remaining CALM and RELAXED. Search your body for tension, and RELEASE the tension. If you play a musical instrument, PRACTICE “Search and Destroy of Tension”. “Calm” can be LEARNED, but requires PRACTICE. Good Luck!
Rock Reynolds
(AKA: Roger Reynard)
Thank you for this comment. I am 26 years of age and have been "Trying Hard" all my life, i.e. being tense and forced especially in scary social situations and when the stakes are high. I will now try to "become & remain calm" ESPECIALLY during those situation where my natural instinct is to tense up and "Hold onto something as tightly as I could". Your comment gave me an insight that might just change my life. Thank you and much appreciated.
Very good comment.
@@JuneJuneyJunJune
Hi JuneJuneyJunJune! Thank you for the awesome Comment! I don’t get too many of those. It is inspiring to ME, that somebody actually PAID ATTENTION to what I wrote!
JuneJuneyJunJune, a MAJOR THEME of my life, is that I learn the MOST PROFOUND LESSONS, as soon as I can’t use them anymore.
--- After thousands of various-type baseball games, I FINALLY learned “How to Hit a Baseball”, when I was 53-years-old. I went to a “Batting Cage” in the 35-mph speed, and cranked the balls like never before.
--- The KEY to “Batting”: DON’T STEP INTO THE BALL. The “Power” in the Bat, emanates in the Power of the “BODY TWIST”, NOT in “Stepping Forward”.
--- “Stepping INTO the Ball”, DIMINISHES the timing of the TWIST (called “Torque”). Most powerful TWIST equals: TWIST the Back Foot Toe AND Front Foot Heel, ONLY. Boys and Girls SHOULD BE TAUGHT PROPER BATTING TECHNIQUE, as soon as they can pick up a bat.
TWO MORE “BATTING TIPS”.
--- First Tip. After Contact between the Ball and the Bat, IT IS NOT THE BATTER’S “JOB” TO LOOK AT THE BALL!!! It is the COACH’S JOB to watch the Ball, the BATTER’S JOB is to look at the BASE (to TIME the steps to the base), and also the BATTER’S JOB is to LISTEN to the Coach.
--- Second Tip. A CALM BATTER with a straight head, will watch the Pitch, to the point that CONTACT IS MADE, between the Ball and the Bat. At the end of the Batter's swing, the Batter’s EYES should STILL BE FOCUSED ON THE “CONTACT POINT”, although the Ball is no longer there. AFTER THE SWING IS COMPLETE, the Batter should not look for the Ball, but should IMMEDIATELY FOCUS on First Base, and LISTEN to the Coach!
Here is an aspect of “Muscle Movement”, I wish I would have known as a Child, that I just learned five years ago.
--- A SINGULAR MUSCLE, can ONLY PROVIDE FORCE, in ONE DIRECTION, by “Contracting”. After a muscle CONTRACTS, the muscle CANNOT provide force in the Opposite Direction.
--- THUS, ALL MUSCLES COME IN “PAIRS”. A “Muscle on top” to provide Force in one direction, is ALWAYS ACCOMPANIED by a “Muscle on the Bottom”, to provide Force in the Opposite Direction.
--- (Kinda important to know, when you’re moving a bow across a Fiddle String)
--- For instance, if your arm is straight, and then you move your hand up to your shoulder, bending your arm, it is the BICEPS, the muscle on TOP of your Upper Arm, that CONTRACTS, to provide the Force for that movement. The Muscle that provides the “contracting force”, is called an “Agonist” for that movement.
--- The Muscle that would provide Force in the Opposite Direction, is called the TRICEPS, which is on the BOTTOM of the Upper Arm. When the straight arm hand is moved to the Shoulder, using the Force from the BICEPS, the TRICEPS is called the “Antagonist”, and needs to STAY OUT OF THE WAY, by relaxing.
--- When moving the bent arm back to a straight configuration, the BICEPS and the TRICEPS SWITCH ROLES, with the TRICEPS becoming the “Agonist”, and the BICEPS becoming the “Antagonist”.
--- MORAL OF THE STORY: When engaged in any physical activity (Sports, Music, Chores), in order to achieve “Flow State”, it is important to keep the “Antagonists” OUT OF THE WAY, resulting in an “Alternating Current” Mind-frame, NOT a “Direct Current, ALL Energy to ALL Muscles” Mind-frame.
As always, JuneJuneyJunJune, after a decade of personal research AFTER my Fiddle Lessons, and FINALLY figuring out an effective way to CONTROL a “Fiddle Bow”, my left-hand “Ring Finger” and “Pinky” SLIGHTLY WEAKENED (nuthin’ painful), JUST ENOUGH so that I lost a significant amount of “Left Hand Control”, rendering my “Right Arm Epiphanies”, to currently be “Sitting on the Shelf”.
Thanks again for the Inspiring Comment!
Rock
Nah stop trying
I felt like this after praying to God and meditating and not gonna lie, not caring about the outcome of anything and not desiring anything, that profound feeling literally made me break down into tears. The power of spirituality
Real. I can relate to your feeling(s) on many occasions and each time I learn something fascinating! Check out the wim hof guided breathing video next time you meditate, I highly recommend it for achieving flow state naturally. Once you get it down, you can do it peacefully outdoors and embrace life ☀️
I came to this understanding today. Learning to leave everything in Jesus’s hands. It’s scary because I’m focusing on building my trust in God when the people the carried weight in my life all scarred me. How’s it going for you?
Osss
I do this but I instead ask for the universe. I think it’s power within tbh
Spirituality is for weak people that can't deal with life.
I just want to thank this channel for being there when I was in the lowest phase of my life. This year had been very tough for me.... I was preparing for an important exam... I had no job.. I used to see my friends progressing in their lives while my life had come to a stand still. It was too frustrating, spending my whole day studying at home and waiting for the results. This channel gave me the strength I needed to withstand this difficult situation... definitely saved me from falling into depression. My results are out now and I have topped the exam. I just wanted to share my story with you all and pray that whoever is struggling right now will definitely succeed. Just surrender everything to the universe and the universe will bring everything to you.
Pray and universe right next to each other, the irony.
This is exactly what I am experiencing, studying and studying and seeing no results... I hope things get better for me...
Thank you for your message! You described my situation atm. I'm happy it worked out for you. Mental work is very hard to do for hours and hours and days and days. And months and months of feeling overwhelmed... I'm trying to not wish this (life)time to pass, but enjoy it, or at least flow with it, it is very difficult though...
i was also in the same situation as you were their but sadly I have failed my examination .
Congrats bro! I concur all you said is true. Struggling is part of life and makes you understand that it's all about letting go. Takes time, but one could later get it through suffering. Wish you all the best
Releasing the need to be perfect is what paradoxically often leads to perfection.
Thank you for another great video :)
Ive been playing music for 20 years, and making music for about 12 year's, and just recently learned that if i quit caring about criticism and just put out what I want i am more proud of my work and can take negative feedback so much better. Instead of looking at old projects as a failure i look at it as a way to improve
Bravo 👏 you fully understand Taoism…well done young grasshopper
Don’t force anything - especially if u don’t want it. Flow with some thing u want, that will add value to your life ! .. great video dude once again 👏🏼👊
As a computer programmer, I regularly drop effortlessly into a flow state. The part in the video about too hard > anxiety and too easy > boredom resonates very strongly - I experience this weaving in and out of the flow state many times during a typical day. The really interesting thing with this relatively extreme example of a flow state is the loss of perception of the passing of time - without exaggeration, many hours can pass in what feels like a few minutes...
I have encountered the perception of time passing as well, usually either working on computer hardware where if I do not focus on it and just sort of go through the motions I have done so many times in the past, things just flow naturally and an hour of work seems like 10 minutes. I try to take a moment to appreciate it after it happens when I can.
Yup..1 year can feel like a day!
@davedubuk I worked in IT for decades as a system manager. About 2 years ago, I was hired by a manager at a corporation to perform similar tasks and manage initiatives to what I have done previously in my 20+ year career. What I have found is that if I block out an hour or two, I usually cannot come up with _"brilliant solutions"_ but when I was taking the subway home or relaxing on the weekend, an idea would pop into my mind and I'd have to create a process flow or some other notes. Well, apparently, my former manager was either a genius at all times and didn't work the way I did, or he just didn't trust me and my results, but he thought I was ineffective in my role and as a result, I was terminated from the role. (Side note, I feel very relaxed for this past month 😆). Some managers understand that there is a creative aspect to problem solving and solutioning that is not necessarily _"on demand",_ even though the deliverables are not even late.
I can find that drawing something, until i get tired. And colouring with crayons (I'm 70 have have been a university instructor of anatomy and stats for 16 years, but I do love colouring!). Same with altering an image with Photoshop. All too easy to get involved with slight changes of a shape or shades, perhaps past what is needed.
GUYS IM A PROGRAMMER BTW
This is just the truth, a hidden truth, an unknown known, a difficult yet easily achievable wonder, so paradoxical and so valuable. Thank you for communicating something seemingly uncommunicable so comprehensively. You are wonderful ❤️
I experience the flow state when I'm playing drums, guitar, bass guitar, dancing, playing any sport, playing my favourite video game, when I'm meditating, when I'm talking about spirituality to people, when I'm out in the garden doing heavy labor or when I'm doing a workout.
In a way, I kind of constantly strive for the flow state. This started from a very young age after experiencing that feeling playing football. As I got older I wanted to feel that in everything I do.
This channel's videos on Wu Wei, Daoism, and related topics honestly changed my life.
I am dealing with a host of mental issues, Autism being the least of them. For a long time, this meant I had a hard time dealing with everyday tasks such as cleaning, cooking etc. My home looked like, pardon the invective, shit. And living in a ugly, inefficient environment didn't do my mental state no favors.
Then I saw that video and contemplated Wu Wei. Ended up even buying a translation of Dao De Jing and Zuan ZI. And started cleaning, sorting, throwing away. Bought myself a drill so I could hang up some little hooks to hang stuff on. Biked to the recycling center daily for a while.
And now I live in a quite charming apartment. And have switched to a partly vegetarian diet that is both healthier, cheaper and tastier than the eggs-and-bacon-for-lunch-TV-dinner-for-supper diet I had before. Also lost weight. Went from obese to what barely qualifies as a dad bod. That was never even a goal. it just happened.
TLDR:
Thanks.
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 amazing!
Congrats!! 🎉 you’ve done a great job
happy to hear your life was improved!
@@innerwisdom9643 Thank you!
Awesome
As a musician I understand the flow state. Constructed an entire song from scratch in two hours the other day without really thinking about it.
@davidtollefson8411 - Maybe you're in the same class as Wolfgang Mozart, and Bix Beiderbecke, the greatest!
Same! If i just enjoy the process and quit caring what people think of the outcome i enjoy it so much more
I have experience with Flow in three areas.
1) Playing golf on an elite level.
2) Performing work linked to SOPs and human interaction.
3) Writing or talking about a subject of interest.
In all situations, I gained expert/senior/mentor status with confidence in doing the task and open-minded and flexible to adapt the knowledge to complex circumstances and contexts. I was at ease and made necessary adjustments as the present objective highlighted my focus to achieve total harmony of body and mind. The key for me has been not to be afraid to fail or too eager to perform. Keep staying in a positive, relaxed, and comfortable mood with a balanced arousal level.
I like Ajahn Brahms saying ''Doing it is easy, thinking about it is the hard part.''
Nice one! I will keep it!
For me, driving is my flow state. I never overthink when I drive. I just drive. I think it just comes from a place of certainty and confidence in my driving skills. I'm as comfortable driving to a nearby store as I am driving in unfamiliar places, be it day or night. I experience the same flow state when I cook. It's just natural to me.
My overthinking area is weight loss and food. That's when I have all kinds of worries like "am I eating right?", "am I not eating too much?", "am I eating right foods?", etc.
This is a great video, thank you!
ryan gosling " i drive"
one of the key component that i find in my life useful to reach such a state is to be at peace with my own life, and letting in a way the path to resolve for it self after all i know where i am heading, all i have to do is to live it and stay true to my own goals
I've had this experience several times.
As a child, I used to love cycling. Angry, sad, happy, sick, I'd cycle all the same. I've got so much experience that now I can think of something else while cycling. I have muscle memory of sorts and navigating traffic doesn't even require effort as my mind very quickly and easily makes the decisions on what to do. No joke, I've cycled many kilometers while pondering on some conversation I had and reached my destination safely without being in danger of an accident once.
In a similar way, I had an exam this Feb and I hadn't studied at all till like 3 days before. So now I have sat down and just go, well, time to study. I don't think about anything else, there's nothing else occupying my time and attention, no other thoughts, just me and the topic in front of me that I need to study. I complete 2 chapters and decide to take a break. To my surprise, 3 hours have passed. I didn't even check my phone once, because I didn't need it while studying. I scored 97.5% in that exam.
So I would agree that the best way is to stop overthinking. Focus on the task and nothing else. If the flow comes, good, if not, oh well. Either way, you are going to do the task and you are going to do it as best as you can.
Like in case of writing, all I think about in that state is what is the next scene or what is the next piece of dialogue to be written. Before I know it, an hour has passed and I'm staring at 1000 words on the doc.
Your driving example was something I can relate to. I enjoyed the ability to turn my overthinking off so much that Ive started driving competitively several years ago. I am constantly chasing the upper state of flow while on track, but most of the time it evades me due to external stimulations such as discussions before getting in the car, change of weather or vehicle condition. Other times, its things that have no relation to the event such as family or financial situations. Its difficult to turn a lot of those things off because I have an internal struggle with my inner-character fundamentally caring about those things. I have a hard time letting go and worry creeps in to my over-analytical mind. Still trying new things such as stimulation triggers for activating the flow state, slow-retreats into solitude before the events, training in every emotional state, etc. A couple years ago, your channel has helped me adopt a daoist philosophy which helped me, my family and everyone I come into contact with tremendously in all aspects of life. For that I want to say thank you. ♥
I experienced flow state yesterday while driving. It was the lack of bad traffic, distracting music and the presence of beautiful nature that made me achieve it. I never felt so happy in a long time.
It's a weird but surprisingly true theory I have that whenever I expect something to happen too much it is bound to not happen, while when I let my guard down and just go with things without expecting anything that's when the most unexpected events happen to me. Also that when I expect something to go well it is definitely not gonna go well while whenever I expect something to fail it somehow does well. So I'm constantly in the "expect failure to win" state. For instance, when I expect to run into someone on my way out, I don't. But the days I let my guard down I bump into all sorts of people I don't want to run into. So whenever I leave the house I continuously expect to see someone I know in my head so that I won't run into them somehow. Sounds really absurd, but it works for me for some reason!
I think it's this: you can't activate the flow state. The flow state is about feeling the reality around you. The key word is feeling. Feel the action flowing. Know what they are knowing. Observe what they are showing. Forever feel it flowing.
00:30 🧠 Mastery is more than skill; it's about the union of intention and action, where mind and body harmonize to achieve a flow state.
01:53 🌊 The flow state isn't forced; it arises when you're relaxed and clear-minded, embracing it rather than chasing it.
04:20 🚗 Driving can trigger a flow state: overthinking causes anxiety, while letting go brings a sense of unity with the road.
08:03 🧩 The flow state involves intense concentration on a challenging, rewarding task, merging action and awareness, altering time perception.
10:59 🤯 Psychic entropy, caused by inner chaos and distraction, prevents entering the flow state; worry and multitasking scatter attention.
14:46 🌟 Flow activities, with clear goals and immediate feedback, facilitate flow experiences by challenging and transforming the self.
17:39 🌌 The flow state emerges when you stop trying too hard and immerse yourself fully in the task; finding balance and enjoying the process are key.
The state of flow is taught to us primary school teachers in our education. It's challenging to provide instruction that gives all the children an optimal condition for growth, but it's definitely worth working towards it.
Kids naturally exist in flow state, social conditioning, setting expectations and requirements, telling them what things are instead of them figuring it out for themselves is what leads them out of those states and into thoughts.
There’s moments where I’m in flow then I all of a sudden think, “WOW IM REALLY FOCUSED AND DOING GREAT!” annnnd it, of course, pulls me out of it. Lol
The pull out game is strong
@@Drømstudios
That’s one way to say it, yeah!
I've had this numerous times and technology is also really bad for sustaining flow. You get there and a text comes in and you're out again. Nothing more frustrating, especially if things are piling up bc you've been struggling to get things done.
Flow state has been described similarly to the experience of certain drugs as "transient hypofrontality" essentially, you're no longer using the frontal lobe of the brain to control your actions, but using 'instinct', which is far faster. Meditation, and the ability to shut down, or at least quiet your own superfluous thoughts will help you in this regard.
I know this sounds crazy but this explains why I was so over the top anxious before surgery and calm and relaxed (naturally) sitting in the pre-op cubicle. I didn’t quite understand why I felt calm after weeks of gut-wrenching anxiety. I think I must have let go and was in the moment preparing to go into the OR which put me in a state of flow. Huh! Who would have thought that would have happened right before surgery!
@marilyn111111 I have encountered similar! I'm usually rushing around weeks before, trying to fix up my home (that i previously ignored for months or years), take care of other stuff I have put off, all the while cursing myself (seriously I stuff I call myself) 😞 and I go into a downward spiral. Once I get to the admitting office, my blood pressure is either normal or even below! (My "normal" for the past 10 years is 145/90, with medication, and can spike up to 195 or 200 as the top number 😳)
Anyway, it has shown me that I am able to bring my blood pressure down if I keep calm and do deep breathing. 🙂
Love this video! So true about solitude. I have found my flow when paddle-boarding, doing yoga, and creating birthday cards for people. ❤
How incredibly interesting to read about the flow! I am an artist and I experience the flow on a regular basis. I can work for hours on my art without getting hungry or bored or even remembering anything else in my life. The time flies so fast that after 6 hours straight I feel like only an hour passed. Often my husband calls and remind me to eat so my sugar doesn't get too low. I wish many more people would experience it. It brings so much peace to my life.
I’ve driven tractor trailers for 22 years. I love it. Being alone, listening to thousands of audiobooks. When I learned to be in the flow, othes driving shitty no longer bothers me.
I’m proud of you for learning the fine art of driving.
Great comment. I know what you mean. I drove ambulances and fire appliances for a few years and the concentration required took me to a whole new level of awareness. there was nothing else in the world or my mind than the task of safely piloting the vehicle and crew to the scene as quickly as possible. I've never experienced such a strong state of flow since those days. I miss it very much.
Your personal example of driving is what I'm experiencing right now! I'm in my late 30s and just started learning driving and it is difficult to me because I worry too much and think too much while driving. So even after 1 year more of driving, I still make some mistakes here and there and need my wife's supervision while I drive...Thank you so much for this video and I will continue to practice driving, stop worrying and thinking too much and hopefully can reach the flow state in driving :)
I had the dozen lessons at 17 - but had to have the mechanics explained, I couldn't just do as I was told, I had to visualise the gears, differ, the whole schematic of the mechanics. I didn't pursue driving again for another decade, and took 3 attempts to pass. The third test I thought I'd failed after the first 30 seconds, so just got on with it! Good luck with the driving, it's a challenge for over thinkers
Oml I have to take driver refresher/defencive driving courses soon because I haven’t driven in ages and it’s so stressful. If there weren’t so many vehicles on the road, I would feel better about it.
I have experienced the flow state many times, particularly while reading, writing, or playing games like chess or cricket. To me, it's the state of being fully engaged in the activity without letting thoughts interfere and it happens all of a sudden that you don't even have a chance to see it either there~ I think the "me" disappears at that moment and the soul enriches the act.
Brilliant. Driving is the best way to describe the flow state.
something that has always spoke to me and get me into flow state is piano, i don’t worry about anything and i genuinely enjoy the process of making songs and just playing it play, not for money, not for the outcome, not for anyone else, i play just to play because it makes me feel best and i think THAT is the most important in achieving flow state and success in general
Flow happens when there is no resistance. Self acceptance, acceptance of other people, of circumstances, of the life as it is. Sometimes the conditions are just right to be in the flow and it happens effortlessly. But sometimes we are unable to see beyond our limitations and need to work on them to let them fall and free the way to flow...
I am new to this guy, but I find him wonderful and possibly life changing
He's a pretty cool dude indeed
Keep an eye on him! He's deep!!
Whenever any of my meditation students were trying too hard, I would give them this exact advice - once you stop trying to stop thinking, thoughts will cease. Pure intention is strong enough to begin, and what follows is just gentle concentration.
When one delves even deeper in Eastern philosophy and spirituality i.e. Taoism/Buddhism the concept of Flow and its Understanding is enhanced, Its like a spark of Intuition ,I tend to think that Eastern philosophy was and is far ahead of its time compared to Western philosophy but that is not to discredit the significance and the position of Western philosophy ,Generally when one experiences flow it leaves a sense of craving for more only to forget that you cannot control its happening and its emergence ,but its really sweet with a less likelihood of being reduced into logic ,the most satisfying experience 💯💯
You are by far my favorite channel nowadays. I feel like every other people I watch are trying to take something from me. You on the contrary always gives me something. Thank you.
I have had psychedelic experiences mixed with my Photography where I have become completely absorbed in my work. The experience is insane as my senses become so heightened and finely tuned that I feel like an aperture for creativity to flow. Flow state feels like opening up to the world to be completely present without any baggage or boundaries, to become one with the subject and process, a place of pure ecstasy ❤️🙏
Caring for the outcome, is fearing the conclusion of events. Creates hesitation in the thought loop, interrupts the subconscious processing
Up to fairly recently, I used to be a very analytical and planning-type of thinker. After I learned to be in the present, instead of reliving fears from the past or worries for the future, life became a lot easier. In fact, I find myself in the flow doing activities that I previously became unable to do, paralyzed by a mix of boredom and sense of pointlessness. By observing my own thinking I am now able to detect when my own thoughts are carrying me away. Not being the thinker, but more or less a third person observing the thinker is very liberating. When this mental stress is reduced to a minimum, it is much easier to be in the flow.
This was probably the most subtle and honest video about the flow state. Just like he said, "you don't have to get into flow state by yourself but rather allow the flow state into you". This is probably the most accurate explanation of flow state. The psychic entropy explains about thoughts and distractions that come into your mind while you are trying to engage yourself in doing some task.
TBH for me when I am doing something that I have genuine interest in, the flow state kicks in as soon as I start that work. But when I am forcing myself to do something that I don't like but has high reward, the flow state is really hard to get in.
The flow state is a balance. As a goalie and diagnosed high functioning autistic person, there is a way to make time stretch, it doesn't work the same for others, they don't see it, but everything is known and the best choice made before everything is understood, then you are where you should be to be where you wanted.
This concept resonates with me as I am musician (percussionist) and being in the flow state is the optimal way to play. As soon as the mind starts overworking, that's when the "wheels come off".
Just recently my childhood friend's significant other was stuck in Firenze without healthcare, when she fell ill. Offered my friend for us to drive her home from Budapest, because a.) I like driving more often than not, and b.) I wanted to be part of the solution to this challenging problem.
We started going at 5:30, with about 6 hours of sleep. During the trip, I lost track of time pretty much all through out Slovenia. After arriving in Italy, I can hardly recall what happened until we reached the great tunnels that lead through the peninsula into Firenze.
What Misi described in his book feels rather fitting to what I've experienced here. I had zero worries about us making it or not, it was all a matter of "when".
After we picked up her girl, we immediately set off home. In the final 3 hours of the trip, I lost my capability to enter back into flow, due to becoming physically tired. That's when I put some music on a JBL. The rest of the trip was more conscious, as I was fending off tiredness. Didn't want help with taking the reins over, because I wanted to conquer the 2000km drive.
We arrived home at 1AM the next day. It was 20 hours of focus total. Without flow, the trip would have been impossible for me. My parents still can't believe we made it in one go. 🙂
Suppose it helped that I'm a huge introvert, so wasn't engaging in much conversations on the trip.
i pray that the person reading this learns to let go and just be..embrace the flow state. come out of your head and gently into your heart. have a lunch with your self enjoy yourself and your existence. let all that you wish flow to you abundantly. having the wisdom to permanently keep and manage all that you wished for!! happy MANIFESTING gang⭐️⭐️⭐️💐❤️❤️❤️
It happened to me last week when I was swimming. I was practising my breathing and arm stroke in free style.
In fact, I only focused on how get things right, to get the 'rhythm' between intake, outtake, and arms stroke. No speed, no power, only focused on techniques. Relax and slow.
I wasn't even thinking nor remembering about the flow state.
and then, it happened. There is one 50 meter lap I finished without even realising it. As if time skipped or (I think) my subconscious took over my body. I was in automatic mode.
Somehow, in way, a spiritual journey, and It felt so good!
many years ago, I drove through northern Scotland during some snow. The highway was blanketed in about 30cm of snow such that the road surface could not be seen. There were no street lights and my windscreen had iced up such that I could only look out a small patch of ice free windscreen through which I could just see the red lights of the cars ahead of me. An earlier vehicle had driven ruts into the snow and I was driving in them, as were the 5 cars ahead of me. I could not pull over to clear my windscreen as I could not see where the side of the road was. All 6 cars began to drive as one, none overtook the other but instead all keeping the same speed and braking together like a snake wending its way over a snow covered road all the while I was peering through this small ice free patch of glass. My friend had fallen asleep in the passenger seat and rather than becoming worried, I just let myself react without thinking to the cars ahead of me. I drove like this for 4 hours before we finally reached the outskirts of Edinburgh and I could pull into a service station for fuel..
When I was a Kid i reached Flow by playing Videogames and solving Rubiks cubes.
4 years ago I discovered Flowarts and it became my favorite thing to do ever since.
Just being one with a staff or a Ropedart and performing challanging dances are the most meditative thing I have ever experienced.
Thank you very much for the video! I'm 48 years old and i'm learning to drive now, and i 'm having a similar expericience.... One of my Hobbies is photography and sometimes i feel like i have this flows experiences when i go take pictures, it feels like i am connected to the nature or the place i am shooting... For me it happens when i relax and focus on what i am doing in the moment, the thing is that jus happens from time to time....
I'm 36 and would like to book driving lessons but I'm such an overthinker I really struggle with it! I have tried many times, but I will try again...and try these things ❤
@@Lele-p3g4g Meditation everyday, helps a lot to calm down... Do a lot of exercise too... You Will find what is best for you...
ADHD & Hyperfocus is practically the flow state. Tools like this video can help so much, not only with managing ADHD, but in using it as an advantage.
Thank you for yet another amazing video 😊😊❤
Edit: To add, flow is found in being(doing what feels natural, out of your mind and into your body) . You don't have to think about it ,you just do it and find yourself moving through it. The more you force ,the further away you are from it... so I think grounding yourself in the present and just being. I feel like flow is also associated with having trust for oneself.
That's a really good insight, I believe. The state of just 'being' as opposed to 'doing' is probably a pre-requisite for entering the flow state. Thanks!
@@Trogdor0547 I agree
It's like Yoda said, "Do or do not, there is no try"
No is the opposite. Just try and don’t worry about doing or getting stuff done. Ease into the state rather than forcing.
I’m a yoda fan and this is what his philosophy too generally points to, except in this case I feel
Great video! As someone who is also prone to overanalyzing and overthinking, this is helpful information to getting into a flow state! Solitude is underrated and essential!
i tried it myself hundred times and found that it always happens UNCONSCIOUSLY! the more we are aware about it, the more it eludes from u.
Flow state comes from feeling like you understand to a certain degree. Understanding creates peace in your mind therefore the flow state can emerge.
I am making this comment before finishing the whole video, adhder here I will forget it if I dont comment now.
I am at the part that you are saying that when you desire to drive well seased you eventually drove well. Its not your desire that was seased but your fear , you desire started to compensate your belief that you are not a good driver. You wouldn't desire to drive well if tou wasnt afraid you cant. Its like you have an internal belief that says , I will be a good driver when I will complete x years of driving.
This hypothesis might be completely wrong or on the other hand some therapy and inner work would benefit you, despite you are making all those wonderful videos and feel like a very grounded person with analytical thinking and higher intelligence
perhaps ironically, i think a good way to get a feel for flow state is to indulge in psychedelic substances. you must allow the substance to essentially take control of your body and allow it to run its course and not try to control it. this is what allows for interpersonal revelations and how to avoid bad trips
When focusing more with your senses, you focus less on your thoughts.
One definition of flow is a lack of thoughts.
Enjoyment helps you focus on what you're doing.
It's worth mentioning that the flow state can be trained. Not only so that it becomes easier to reach and hold on to, but also to deepen it in ways you cannot even describe. The tool is meditation.
The fact that nobody talks about the book whispers of manifestation on borlest speaks volumes about how people are stuck in a trance
Scam
These type of comments keep appearing on these kind of vids
😮
Do they..?
Thanks for noticing @@Dezron
Appreciate this, especially with my driving test coming up next week
Thought provoking video. I find one of the most concrete ways to study the flow state, is in some kind of somatic learning. Somatic intelligence. This could be something like learning a new physical skill, martial arts, learning to play a piano. There's some balance between effort, and letting go. Somatic skills, is one way of holistically taking one out of one's mind (mental chatter).
In the case of the piano, one starts with micro skills, like doing one's scales. This then becomes automated, becomes unconscious competency, whereby one can build on top of it, higher level skills, such as playing a melody. It can actually be quite systematic. The right effort, at the right time. And letting go at the right time, when something becomes automatic.
One cannot rush things. One has to listen to one's body. It's not simply the mind telling it what to do, but a kind of listening, feeling into all the different elements involved. It's a kind of dance amongst the various elements, too complex for the purely discursive mind to understand.
The enjoyment is what prevents me, It's been a while since I made a decision to focus on what I enjoy and be immersed, and now I know that the enjoyment is the key to be in my flow
Sometimes during a long session of reading or making art I find myself in a flow state but I snap out of it when I realise in I'm a flow state and get excited.
It annoys me but I eventually go back into flow
"worrying is what happens when you try to bring order to chaos or the unknown" - this is it in it's pure definition 🙏
The discussion gives me insight into the dichotomy of influencing and reflecting (e.g. talking and listening). Neither embodies the complete description or influence that _flow_ may characterize within us, but rather exemplifies choices made to affirmatively control our future, with an acknowledgement to the benefits of _flow_ against both the negative states of anxiety and boredom.
This video is awaken my flow state, thank you! I was struggling without realising to something that I was holding on miserably and then light bulb comes in the midst of listening to this. Incredible!! 🙏❤️ thank you
When I am turning a piece of wood on a lathe, I can find myself stepping back from it to find hours have gone past and the piece is completed without really feeling the time go by. I am aware of every moment and conscious of the hazards inherent in a piece of wood spinning at 2-3K RPM in front of me but the time isn't weighing on me at all. It's like a few moments of total focus have gone past in a matter of hours as measured on the clock.
The satisfaction at creating beautiful things, even when they aren't as beautiful as I might have hoped, is always there at the end. I am slightly sad to step away. I wish I could hold onto the experience a little longer.
Until the next piece.
I've experienced the flow state while trekking in Nepal. Pack on, booted up and completely lost in the joy of complex coordination, calculating angles, textures, lost in the trail. Meanwhile my body is purring along, regulating breathing, blood pumping, muscles flexing, tendons stretching. And above it all, an appreciation of this amazing symphony of physical and mental abilities. I'm not sure how it really begins, possibly physically at first and then your mind catches up and gets into it. It doesn't last long (perhaps 20 mins to 45) but somewhat surprising to see the beautiful results.
I've heard this philosophy explained by several different people, but with your explanation I now understand. Thank you for your channel & sharing your knowledge.
The BIGGEST LIE You've Been Told About Money is that it doesn't grow on TREES!! 😆
I agree with you!! Money actually grow on trees but only on trees that was planted by you!! These tress are referred to as investments. How you diversify your investment portfolio matters
Diversification is the key. My portfolio is well diversified with the help of a financial adviser. This helps me make more than +400% monthly on my investments.
I'm intrigued by this. I've searched for financial advisers online but it's kind of hard to get in touch with one. Okay if I ask you for a recommendation?
I've experimented with a few over the past years, but I've stuck with ‘’Angela Lynn Schilling” for about five years now, and her performance has been consistently impressive. She’s quite known in her field, look her up.
Wow, her track record looks really good from what I found online. I'll take a chance and see how it goes. Thanks for the info
All great men are gifted with intuition. They know without reasoning or analysis, what they need to know.
I judge flow state by how fast time flies. If it's standing, I'm definitely not in the flow state.
Spot on. I find I’m in flow when I’m learning something new at work. I can pour into the topic and time flies by while I am tinkering. When I gain new understanding I am excited and eager to do more and more.
I experienced this while doing a simple exercise with a sword, repeatedly bringing the blade down in front of me. The novelty started to wear off. Muscle memory engaged & I needed minimal attention to maintain the correct posture. Suddenly, the blade came down with extra speed & force. It was hard to believe that the proper form could make such a huge difference.
I think flow would come with enough practice and the mindset that allows ourselves to make mistakes. Amazing video!
Some days ago I went to a rural property. There were chickens and dogs simply living without any kind of stress. In Italian it is called “spensierati”, without preoccupation.
I learned a lot from them.
I
This is pretty good stuff. Certainly resonates with me. Although there are obstacles real and perceived, your personal flow can help to navigate and differentiate. There is no one way to live and learning and understanding your own flow can really be beneficial. I think there is a stoicism about it in me. Cannot speak for others.
Thank you for explaining the flow state so well and so elegantly through your example of driving. I could never relate to flow state before because all the previous attempts were using examples of high-achieving athletes or artists, and that was unrelatable. I love driving though, and now I know why. Another flow state that comes easily to me is playing with children (or adults that let themselves play like children).
Your explanation also helps me understand what happens in a new setting. Like driving is to you, to me it's my psychotherapy training. Before I started to practice with my first clients I was overanalyzing and fretting how I would apply what I've learned. But when I sat across from the person and we connected, something magical happened and the process just flowed. Most of the time. Each time I would get in my head and searched for a solution for a moment the magic was gone. As I would tell my self, Let go of the search, the magic would return. And it continued to happen this way every time I would sit in that chair and connect with an open heart to another human.
Another great essay on topic already covered. Very interesting and giving me perspective I had not considered.
What blocks me from my flow state is trying my best to be what others think I should be. I just need to be the best me and let go what others think. Be well
Congratulations on getting your license brother at 29 I just got mine too don't rush you learn valuable lessons with waiting. For example I never feel like speeding because I've always ridden a bus my whole life
So just getting somewhere in a timely manner is such a privilege. Failed my test once . Good to hear similar experiences. Take care and don't rush. Things will come. Went from a Bus to a Lexus keep your head up!
Cant go a day without listening to this and your voice. It soothing my conflicted feelings
I am an artist and the things I do to enter the flow are essential for the fact of receiving a quiet mind. Having ADHD, it is needed to slow time down. We dwell too much on what has happened and no longer matters for the reason to wonder about what will happen due to what has happened. Creativity is channeling all those feelings into something to admire and stay in the present moment while understanding that effortlessly, a work of art we bring to life. Never try to improve your skill. Through passion that is followed, your skill improves itself by experience.
Besides all said in the video, which I agree, I find the curiosity as something which triggers my flow. I mean, if I don't have the childish like curiosity about something, I think it's impossible to get to the flow state doing it. I mean, if I have to do something just because I have to do it, without any curiosity, I'll get it done, but not in a flow state.
I won’t forget the line of Herman Hesse’s book Siddhartha. “What could I say to you that would be of value, except that perhaps you seek too much, that as a result of your seeking you cannot find.”
There are other teachings in this book that relate to the state of flow. The author compares non-action as the force of a stone, sinking into the river. The stone reaches its end goal effortlessly, without struggling. I often think of this quote and wonder what I should do to achieve this state. It is interesting that you refer to it as the “flow”, like the current of water working with gravity. I think that I found the answer to it while watching this, what I should do. It seems like the answer would be nothing.
Art/drawing gets me into flow state on just about the daily but how you spoke of driving, no one I know seems to get it. I love to go on solo road trips or hours long drives, it’s almost like a meditation to me. Windows down, wind rushing and flowing all around, with and without music and great views. Peace. Just wish it didn’t take so long to get anywhere that isn’t flat.
Thank you! Learning to just let it be and stay positive!!! Blessings to you and all that watches!!!
Your content is absolutely refreshing, insightful and thought provoking! It has reignited my interest in researching various philosophical ideologies such as Taoism, stoicism etc. I couldn’t agree more that solitude does create a conducive environment for the flow state. When I was very young I’d get lost in books for hours as I’d have to be on my own a lot. And even as an adult, I deeply enjoy time alone and I tend to get better at things when I spend time alone - but ironically, I appear very extroverted around people or at least the right ones. However, I’ve realized that I’ve gotten into flow states amidst chaos such as while dancing or djing etc. It feels as though the world doesn’t exist. I also experience the flow state during intellectual activities such as problem solving with coding, writing or researching an interesting topic. It feels as though things are working almost effortlessly and ideas are connecting with ease - you almost don’t want to stop doing the activity.
Getting into a flow state is just a matter of practice and some persistence, not some wondrous thing. The state may last for a few minutes followed by then hours and eventually months.
Goedemiddag van Utrecht...Ik volg je al 2 weken. Je verruimt mijn horizon over de Tao. Hartelijk Bedankt 🎉❤
I’ve been playing guitar for about a decade now and always struggle to find the flow. I think of every technicality in my playing to the point I’m not even feeling the music. Accessing the flow state is what makes a great musician, a working progress
I enjoy the idea of eliminating the distractions that we are enamored with in today’s digital world. Much easier to get into a flow state while in the physical world and nature especially
Nice video, for the people interested in this topic I suggest looking into "clutch" as well, it complements the arguments of this video and even corrects a few innacuracies when talking about the influence of the "effort" factor and how it helps to distinguish the specific characteristics of "flow" and "clutch" mindsets.
This video is a good explanation to the concept of "Surrender" in the 12-steps, survival, and laws of power.
I needed to see this, I've started a new job, and tomorrow will be responsible for the whole shift after 4 days of interrupted and sporadic training - I was relaxed for those days, and surprised myself by not panicking - but now I'm totally getting in my own head, fretting about scenarios that may never happen, and generally undermining my composure!
How did it go?
You are the smartest person on RUclips. I hope listeners understand your message.
We are always trying to compare with others to be better. Be yourself and let things happen when we have no control. I am always creating scenarios in my head and overthinking is killing my thought.
I’m actually reading this book right now and this was very helpful video in understanding flow and psychic entropy. Lately, I have been cooking and trying out different recipes from several cookbooks. I definitely feel a sense of flow when I’m present and being properly challenged whereas before, I would cook the same type of dish without much enthusiasm, intention or thought behind it. Now I’m excited to cook and try new things!