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There are days where magical things just seem to happen in our work.  We feel energized, focused, and productive.  Our heads are fully and completely "in the game" and our work brings us joy and satisfaction.

 

In psychology circles, this state of energized focus is called "Flow".  Flow occurs when we are fully involved in a task, overcoming obstacles with ease, and producing results that give us personal satisfaction and contentment. 

 

Sound too good to be true?  Research shows that 20% of people achieve Flow every day, while another 15% say that this has never happened to them.

 

If Flow is truly a state of effortless action, how can we make it happen more in our day-to-day work?  Try the three steps on the right to realize the benefits of Flow to your productivity.  

 

Write to us and tell us how you achieve Flow.

 

Best wishes,
Leslie and Barbara 

 

Contact Us:

Leslie Walden

Leslie Walden
404.250.9600

leslie@itstimetogetorganized.com

 

Barbara Skutch Mays
404.918.3664

barbara@itstimetogetorganized.com

 

Three Steps to Achieving Flow at Work

 

Step One: Set Goals

Flow is most likely to appear when there are clear goals to reach.  Make sure your goals are challenging but not impossible to attain.  Goals will inspire you to action and increase the likelihood that you will achieve Flow.

 

Step Two: Gather Relevant Resources

Flow can be disrupted when you do not have the tools you need to accomplish your goal.  Keep a file of notes, articles, and thoughts that you have gathered on a goal you are working toward.  When it comes time to sit down and start working, this file will be a treasure chest of information that will help you reach and maintain Flow.   

 

Step Three: Create the Environment

Flow is about focus and structuring an environment that is conducive to clear thinking.  Schedule a block of time on your calendar.  Minimize interruptions by shutting down your email, turning down the volume on your phone, and closing your office door (and/or posting a "Please Do Not Disturb" sign).  If you struggle with procrastination, set a timer to give yourself that deadline-based adrenaline rush that can be so motivational.

 

If Flow seems to continually elude you, ask yourself some questions:

 

... Are my goals aligned with my values?  Do the goals need to be changed?

 

... Do I have the skills needed to achieve my goals?  How can I further develop my skills?

 

... Are there others who can help me accomplish this goal?  Should I delegate this goal to them?

 

... What barriers, real or perceived, are keeping me from focusing on this goal?  What do I need to do to remove the barriers?

 

If you buy into this concept of Flow, then the enjoyment of your work comes not so much from the specific responsibilites of your job but rather an internal feeling of commitment and achievement.         

 

Happiness that is a result of external circumstances, like a raise or promotion, quickly fades.  Happiness that is a result of Flow comes from an internal source and leads to increased self-knowledge and growth.

 

Commit yourself to your goals for a designated time, and you may be amazed at what "Flows" from you. 

 

Call us with questions on Flow or how we can help you create the optimal work environment.  

 

 

 

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