How can we get into a flow state more often and, once in the flow state, how can we stay in the flow state longer? This is a legitimate question that I have and am working towards finding a solution. So far, here’s my thinking…
The first step is to go to a designated “work space.” It can be a workshop in your garage, a home office in your basement, your actual office, etc. But it should always be the same place and when you get to your workspace, you should only focus on working. This way you don’t confuse your brain into thinking you’re there for something you’re not.
The second step is to eliminate disruptions. Disable alerts in your phone’s settings if you need to, otherwise every time your phone pings you, you’ll be taken out of your flow state. The only alerts I keep are for texts, phone calls, and emails. Emails I have as silent alerts and I turn my phone over so I can’t see the screen.
After this, I’m debating what else I need to do to keep the flow state going. I’ve heard from Tim Ferriss that many ultra high achievers listen to the same song on repeat. I used to do that a long time ago but have fallen out of that routine. Has anyone else found this to be helpful?
Anyways, today’s post is a little different. I’ll get back to my usual posts soon. If you have any ideas regarding getting into flow state, feel free to add it to the comments section or message me directly. I’d love to hear what is working for you. Thanks and enjoy the rest of your week!
I’ve found that I personally have a hard time maintaining flow for a long time so I try to commit to shorter bursts focused on one topic. Way too often, I spend too much time on one topic and allow distractions to come in at any point. Knowing that I have the ability to get distracted, I’ve found some success with those shorter (20-30 minutes) of focused, uninterrupted work.
Great point! It reminds me of the Pomodoro technique. I’ll give it a try.
Do you actually set a timer for it or just go until you feel like you need a break? I feel like, if anything, I’ll need a timer for the break itself. Otherwise I’ll get sidetracked looking stuff up online.
I set a timer for 60 minutes to keep me focused under a time constraint to then pause for a break.
Yeah, I feel like a time constraint is necessary. I would definitely procrastinate or let me ADHD brain take me all over the place.
The second step is key here. I myself am so easily distracted by my phone and the other tabs on my laptop that sometimes I feel it’s just best to disable the internet while I try to write. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Stuart! That’s probably a good idea. No internet will definitely reduce the distractions!
Best of luck with your writing!