Understanding Flow

While managing time is important, recognizing your energy's peak periods can lead to significant productivity gains. Have you heard of the concept of being "in the zone" or "in the groove"? These phrases all refer to the same experience.

Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, the psychologist who introduced the concept of flow, described it well:

> "Flow is being completely involved in an activity for its own sake. The ego falls away. Time flies. Every action, movement, and thought follows inevitably from the previous one, like playing jazz." — Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (1934–2021)

Everyone has experienced flow at some point, but some individuals can access it more frequently. Flow occurs when you achieve a focused, energized mental state, fully immersed in the present, which can enhance your productivity. This state can last for several minutes or even hours.

Understanding when you tend to enter flow can help you structure your time effectively. Simply observe the times throughout your day when you naturally slip into this productive state.

Energy Insights

> "A man doesn’t need brilliance or genius; all he needs is energy." — Albert M. Greenfield (1887–1967)

Achieving flow allows you to channel your energy effectively. The various types of energy that everyone can experience include:

• Mental
• Physical
• Emotional
• Spiritual

Recognizing when these energy peaks occur and what influences them is vital for effective energy management. You probably already have a sense of when your energy is highest for different activities.

Consider these questions:

• When do you hit your energy peaks?
• Which type of energy (mental, physical, emotional, spiritual) is most potent during those times?
• What factors drain your energy needlessly?
• What activities recharge your energy?
• What helps maintain your energy levels?
• Are there identifiable cycles in your energy patterns?

By monitoring your energy over a few days, you'll start to see these peaks and valleys. Gaining clarity on these patterns will enable you to manage your optimal energy states throughout the day.

Personal Reflections on Energy Peaks

When do you experience energy peaks?

For me, my most evident mental energy peaks occur in the early morning, mid-morning, and early evening around 6:00 to 7:00 PM. During these times, my focus and ability to eliminate distractions are at their highest.

In the early morning, I often find myself in a flow state for one or two hours, accomplishing more than I do throughout the rest of the day. I also experience a second wind mid-morning, which can last until noon. After lunch, I usually indulge in a brief nap—yes, you read that right! A quick 10 to 15-minute rest can rejuvenate me, allowing me to enter flow for an hour or so afterward, though not as reliably as in the morning.

Most days, I get a third wind in the early evening, around 6:00 or 7:00 PM. While I can’t always achieve flow then, I often can.

What type of energy is strongest at the peaks?

The flow states I've described primarily stem from my mental energy. However, during early mornings, I typically experience heightened spiritual energy, which is why my morning routine includes time for devotions.

Since retiring, I’ve found a flow state during mid-mornings connected to my physical energy. Early afternoons and evenings remain predominantly mental for me. Although I suspect I have emotional peaks, I haven't tracked them closely in recent years, possibly due to reduced stress after leaving my job.

What drains your energy unnecessarily?

My biggest energy drains are distractions and multitasking. Checking emails early in the day is particularly distracting; once I start, it derails my flow and productivity. That’s why I limit email checks to low-energy moments.

Multitasking is a definite no-no! It’s a significant energy sink, as it leads to constant task-switching, consuming more energy than it saves.

What charges your energy?

Sleep is paramount for me to achieve flow during the day. I thrive on 6 to 7.5 hours of sleep nightly; too much or too little disrupts my energy. I rarely set an alarm and typically rise at the same time each day. If I need more rest, I go to bed earlier. Oversleeping in the morning would be a waste of energy for me.

Additionally, a quick nap after lunch can significantly recharge me. On days I nap, I find it easier to access flow.

What sustains your energy?

The key to sustaining my energy is maintaining consistent routines. Over the past year, I adjusted my morning routine to write and publish my book, "Uncommon Sense." This routine allowed me to achieve flow most mornings, helping me fulfill my long-held dream of becoming a published author.

Post-retirement, I've established a healthy workout regimen. Before my heart attacks, my routine involved waking at 4:00 AM to run, swim, bike, and lift weights. Now, I prioritize using my mind first and exercise later.

I view my current routines as a means to sustain my energy and drive well into the future.

> "Flow is the process of achieving happiness through control over one’s inner life." — Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (1934–2021)

What cycles can you identify?

I've identified several natural cycles that help me optimize my energy use. My sleep cycle works well for my lifestyle, ensuring I have ample energy. My daily nutrition also plays a crucial role in maintaining my health and energy levels. My morning routine is a cycle I rely on consistently, allowing for significant writing and learning each day, which keeps me mentally sharp.

Lastly, I find that taking regular breaks every hour or so to move around benefits both my mind and body tremendously.

> "The energy of the mind is the essence of life." — Aristotle (384–322 BC)

Final Thoughts

Your energy patterns and cycles are unique to you and your lifestyle. Embracing your natural rhythms can lead to less stress, enhanced productivity, greater joy, and a more fulfilling life.

As a final suggestion, consider how the insights shared here can extend beyond work. If you find you have energy in the evening, dedicate some time to engage in meaningful conversations with your spouse or children, or check in with friends. Imagine the impact of giving them your undivided attention—this goodwill will resonate with them and create a lasting legacy.

I’ll leave you with one last piece of wisdom from Csikszentmihalyi:

> "We shape our life by deciding to pay attention to it. It is the direction of our attention and its intensity that will determine what we accomplish and how well." — Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (1934–2021)

May you focus wisely, shape your life positively, achieve much, and lead a fulfilling existence!