This state of mind allows them to have peak performance while completing a task. When experiencing this peak, one’s inner critic is hushed—this feeling is both powerful and addictive. To achieve this feeling, it takes more than a motivational speech, it is about the techniques that you can apply to your own life to lead you on the path that improves your performance and to experience the drive to dedicate yourself to your work.
Experience the “Flow”
The human brain is capable of naturally replicating the effects of five different drugs without being put into a coma. When you experience this, you will access the feeling of being able to accomplish anything. This particular moment or feeling is known as “flow” and every individual may experience it without touching any dangerous drugs. This optimal state of mind is experienced when someone is so committed and involved in their own activity that nothing else matters to them. It has been said that while only a small percent of the brain is activated when in a normal state, additional parts must be activated to achieve flow—the truth is actually the opposite. Parts of the brain shut down when in the flow state, ignoring the inner critic, complex decision making, and sense of will. This gives the experience of liberation, aided in the release of chemicals in the brain like serotonin, endorphins, dopamine, and others.
Giving the Best Without Effort
Flow has been said to be the most addictive state of being, and whether you know it or not you’ve already experienced it. This is the times when you’ve lost track of time, had a strong sense of control, couldn’t simply stop a particular task, were on high alert, and your actions were effortless. Some people may call this getting into their “groove”, and it is actually true. Tasks are completed easily and the moments are genuinely being enjoyed. This is experienced by many artists, writers, and scientists. It is how they are able to work such long hours on a beloved project. This is also the drive that makes people risk their lives to take part in the extreme sports that they enjoy. You build up momentum and focus all of your mental and physical energy on one task.
The Triggers
Triggers can be psychological, environmental, creative, or social.
You must consciously work with your mind to create a state of flow. Clearly outline your goals, to stay away from apathy. Request immediate feedback in order to stay in the flow state. If the task is beyond your skill set, avoid fear by finding the balance between your own capabilities and the task at hand. Know that your own environment can either induce or reject flow. Say yes to taking risks, as you will enter a more focused state for survival move. New contexts lead to complexity, uncertainty, and novelty, allowing you to expand your knowledge and grow your skills. Be aware of your environment with all five of your senses. Explore your own creativity. Link new ideas together to experience the sought after chemical reaction in the brain. Know that unfamiliar approaches will occur, and don’t be afraid to take the risk. Socially, a group should establish familiarity to induce their own group flow. Let your ego go and be humble about the tasks that you accomplish. Your sense of control will allow you to choose the challenges that you overcome, and make you responsible for your actions, leading to a stronger focus.
Being in control of your own potential is vital in taking the path to experiencing flow. Varying flow triggers will work for each person, so find out what works for you so that you can not only enjoy your work but reach your full potential.
