Flow theory describes the state of optimal human experience, where individuals are fully immersed and focused on their activities, which match their skill level and provide just the right amount of challenge. In a flow state, people experience enjoyment and satisfaction, and may lose their sense of time.
Figure 1. Flow state between anxiety and boredom. Adapted from Csikszentmihalyi, M. (2008b). (CC BY 4.0 Super* Project)

Theory to be learned:Flow theory
Field of Science:Psychology
Prerequisites:Basic psychology, and one's own flow experiences.
Relations to Super* Theory: The theory relates to human regulatory functions, as well as the universal idea of the natural flow of the entire world and all things.
Level of Difficulty
★★

Summary:
Flow theory, also known as the psychology of optimal experience, was developed by Hungarian-American psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi in the 1970s. Flow theory is a psychological concept aimed at understanding the state of optimal human experience, where individuals are fully immersed and deeply focused on their activities, leading to a sense of complete immersion and satisfaction. This state is commonly referred to as the "flow state".

The flow state occurs when individuals perform activities that match their skill level and challenge level, creating a balance between personal abilities and task demands. In this state, people often lose track of time and experience deep enjoyment and satisfaction. The concept of flow has been extensively studied and applied in various fields such as education, sports, work, and art.

Factors associated with the flow experience include:

1. Clear goals: The individual has a clear and well-defined goal that their activity aims to achieve. This creates the necessary purpose and direction.

2. Concentrated focus: Flow requires intense concentration and focus, where attention is fully directed towards the task at hand, excluding all possible distractions.

3. Merging of action and awareness: People in a flow state are fully immersed in their activity, which appears as an effortless flow of actions.

4. Immediate feedback: Flow activities often provide clear and immediate feedback, enabling the adjustment of actions and maintaining the optimal state.

5. Loss of self-consciousness: In the flow state, individuals are so absorbed in their activity that they may lose their sense of self-awareness, leading to a detachment from everyday concerns.

6. Sense of control: Despite the challenges, individuals in a flow state experience a sense of control over their actions and the outcomes of their tasks.

Figure 2. Flow state develops in the balance between skills and challenges. Adapted from Csikszentmihalyi, M. (2008b). (CC BY 4.0 Super* Project)

Figure 2 illustrates how the flow state develops in the balance between skills and challenges. The other words in the figure describe situations where there is too much or too little challenge or skill.

According to flow theory, regular practice of flow activities can enhance overall well-being, creativity, and productivity. To regularly achieve a flow state, individuals should seek tasks that match their personal skills and interests. This way, they challenge themselves to develop and practice concentration and mindfulness. By understanding and applying flow theory, people can lead a more fulfilling and rewarding life.

Connections to the Super* project

According to Super* Theory, all things have their inherent flow state – the way things truly are and happen. The flow state can be found in individuals and also in groups that can achieve a collective flow state. Flow is present in design and art, as well as naturally in sports. In the Super* Project, especially in the SBR section, flow theory holds significant importance. The project also recognizes the beneficial impact of the flow state and, according to one exercise, a person should aim for three different flow states per day.

Assisting materials

The TED talk lecture by the developer of flow theory can be found here:


References

Csikszentmihalyi, M. (2008a). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience (1st Harper Perennial Modern Classics ed.). Harper Perennial.

Csikszentmihalyi, M. (2008b). Flow, the secret to happiness. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXIeFJCqsPs&t=1s&ab_channel=TED