Flow II

Written by JC on October 25, 2024

Applying Flow in Your Daily Life

In the previous discussion, we explored flow—a state of deep focus and engagement. Now, let’s look at how we can leverage and use it in our daily life.

1. Morning Routine

The first few hours of you day is where your cognitive load is the lowest as your brain is still fresh. Use this time for high-priority tasks when your focus is sharpest. Plan the night before to eliminate morning indecision, so you can jump in right at the work. Explore this concept in this video: https://youtu.be/XJOsPyyYork?si=uGb5cPgzL4Mvr2H4

2. Less is More: Subract hours, multiply output

Working fewer hours can yield better results. Set time limits to force yourself to concentrate on what truly matters. A well-defined timebox encourages focus and prevents overwork. Prioritize recovery to maintain high performance. Explore this concept in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eash3X5Zi8A&t=614s

3. Recovery

During breaks, avoid stimulating distractions like social media as it will help you not to make your current activity as dull or boring compare to it. Instead, choose calming activities that don’t spike dopamine. Aside from it, after a break, we need to bring our focus back at task. We may find it hard to focus again after break. To solve this, we need to embrace our life as a single chain of activity. We should deliberately do one thing at a time. By doing this, when we’re switching task we tend to quick to focus on current task. Explore this concept in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QNKhJtQpboU&t=758s

4. Optimize Your Environment

Your workspace affects your flow. Create variety by using multiple stations—sitting, standing, and walking. Changing your environment throughout the day helps maintain engagement and prevents fatigue. Explore this concept in this video: https://youtu.be/1ilWAMCNBW8?si=4a7WN3weICYhZ9k3

5. Leverage Friction

Make distractions harder to access and positive habits easier. Place your phone out of reach during work, or set up your workspace the night before to encourage good habits effortlessly. Explore this concept in this video: https://youtu.be/zFqzzls57ZM?si=GXzUBAkgx7FDXy6q

6. Upgrade rumination

To maintain flow, limit your goals. Direct your energy toward one primary pursuit, cutting out distractions. This clarity makes it easier to dive deep into meaningful work.

7. Use Caffeine Wisely

Caffeine can trigger flow if used strategically. Wait 30 minutes after waking before your first cup, and avoid it within 10 hours of bedtime. Take regular caffeine breaks to reset your sensitivity.

8. Prioritize Sleep

Good sleep fuels flow. Clear your mind by journaling unresolved thoughts before bed. This reduces mental clutter, making it easier to start fresh each morning.

These strategies can help make flow a consistent part of your life. It’s about finding what works for you, refining your habits, and enjoying the process of deep, focused engagement.