Flow Triggers: Complexity
How to Use Complexity as a Flow Trigger
We all yearn for those peak moments of total absorption, energy and focus known as flow states. But how can we reliably tap into the flow amid the complexity of modern work and play?
The key is embracing complexity itself as a portal to flow.
By its nature, complexity compels our full engagement. When faced with intricate challenges and lots of information coming our way at once, our brains release dopamine and norepinephrine – neurochemicals that stimulate motivation, concentration and problem-solving to help our brains sort through it all. Suddenly we’re captivated by the intricacies of the task, entering that coveted state of flow.
Yet complexity can also overwhelm us if not calibrated to our abilities. Here are some tips on how to ride the edge of complexity into flow:
Tips for leveraging complexity at work:
- Break large complex projects into component parts. Set clear objectives for each milestone. Maintain an inspiring big-picture goal.
- Add opportunities for curiosity and creativity into workflows. Allow time for problem-solving and innovation.
- Collaborate with others who bring diverse skillsets and ideas. Multiple perspectives enhance complexity.
- Balance complex challenges with simpler tasks to create moments of mental reset.
Tips for leveraging complexity in action sports:
- Learn new complex tricks and techniques that stretch your skills
- Link together sequences of moves that require full concentration and coordination, or balancing multiple skills and combining techniques.
- Seek more challenging terrain and conditions or more complex environments like skiing in the backcountry vs. resort.
- Advance your equipment to more complex gear with new capabilities.
- Implement intricate race strategies
- Push physical limits – Increased physiological complexity like longer durations or higher intensities absorbs focus.
Whether at work or play:
- When overwhelmed, pause to acknowledge progress and small wins. Then dive back in.
- Schedule review points after completing key milestones of a complex project. Celebrate mini-flow moments.
- Align aspects of passion and intrinsic motivation with mandatory complex tasks.
- Protect space and time for focusing deeply on the most complex components. Avoid distractions.
It’s about learning to artfully dance with complexity to unlock our greatest potential. Completely investing our mental energies allows us to ride flow’s wave to new heights of achievement, purpose and lasting fulfillment. And if you think you’re not up for a complex challenge, remember it can be a path to flow and the associated massive increase your capability as you tackle it!
Here’s how complexity shows up for me! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like help with enhancing flow in your life!
Do you use this flow trigger? How is it most effective for you?!?!?
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A Girl's Guide to doing life on your own terms
GRAB MY FREE GIRL'S GUIDE + GET MONTHLY TIPS FOR CREATING A HIGH FLOW LIFESTYLE.
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Tips and tricks for creating a high flow lifestyle!
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