How to Get "In the Zone" And Stay There

Do you know you've most likely subconsciously be "in the zone" at least once?

As an example....

Have you ever been so engrossed in a TV show or a movie that you didn't hear your name called?

Have you ever been so immersed in something that you lost track of time?

When you are completely immersed in an enjoyable and challenging activity, you naturally enter a state of flow.

If you are in that frame of mind while working on important tasks, think about how much better your focus and performance will be!

But it's not always easy to be in the zone because we are prone to interruptions from technology, calls, emails, and stressful thoughts.

What does "being in the zone" really mean though?

"Being in the zone" actually refers to being in the state of flow.

Flow is a term used in psychology to describe a mental state in which a person is completely immersed and engaged in an activity, resulting in a sense of enjoyment and satisfaction.

The term was first used by positive psychologist Mihály Cskszentmihályi:

“(Flow is) a state in which people are so involved in an activity that nothing else seems to matter; the experience is so enjoyable that people will continue to do it even at great cost, for the sheer sake of doing it.”

The following elements are what Cskszentmihalyi defines as "flow":

• Complete focus on the task – You are not easily distracted and are completely focused on the task at hand.
• Clarity of goals – You know exactly what you want to achieve.
• Immediate feedback – You get immediate feedback on your performance, allowing you to make adjustments in real time.
• A balance of challenges and skills – You're challenged, but the task isn't too difficult, giving you a sense of control.
• Actions and awareness are merged, losing self-conscious – You become so absorbed in the task that you lose track of time and yourself.

The benefits of achieving flow state include increased focus, improved mood, increased creativity, and increased mental clarity.

So, how do you get into a flow state?

Let me run through the 7 steps quickly:

1. Figure out what you enjoy doing
2. Set clear goals
3. Eliminate distractions
4. Use challenges
5. Identify your peak productive and creative times
6. Create a ritual
7. Practice mindfulness

You now have a general idea of what the flow state is.

If you want to delve deeper and learn exactly what actions you can take to complete the above 7 steps, read What Is a Flow State And How to Get Into Flow