One of the most motivating books I’ve read this year was The Rise of Superman by Steven Kotler, searching for tips & tools related to flow. Although I would love to tap into the super secret sauce of Laird Hamilton (world-renowned big wave surfer) and Danny Way (skateboarder who pioneered the megaramp) for other reasons, I’m trying to apply the core concepts to increase creativity and productivity in my everyday work. It’s startling how much more can be completed if you stop looking at blogs, Twitter and email during dedicated stretches. I read an article stating that the optimal duration for productivity is 57 minutes with an 18 minute recovery period (yes, to look at blogs, Twitter and email). Working with that premise has led to a noticeable improvement in flow states.
Aside from focusing, I’ve also made time to do more creative things, like photography, video editing and sketching. Having these creative blocks in the mix, a la Leonardo da Vinci, also has had a profound impact on my flow. Perhaps it’s that I enjoy the activities, that creation itself begets more flow or that cross-pollination makes for better flow state. Stay tuned for that prognosis.
If you are thinking like I am, we have a great deal more within us if we can master flow. Imagine getting double or triple your productivity…
What are you doing to improve your flow?
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