One Thing - Finding Flow

Have you ever had a moment where everything just clicked? Time seemed to disappear, challenges felt effortless, and you were completely absorbed in what you were doing? That’s the magic of flow state.

I recently experienced it during a week packed with big meetings and tough decisions. Normally, weeks like that can feel draining, but this one was different. I found myself operating with sharp focus and high energy. By the end, instead of feeling wiped out, I felt energised and accomplished. It made me wonder: What is it about flow state that allows us to perform at our best, and how can we intentionally create it?

What Is Flow State?

Flow is that sweet spot where challenge meets skill. If a task is too easy, you’re bored. Too hard, and you’re overwhelmed. But when the challenge stretches you just enough, you’re fully engaged—and that’s when flow happens.

Psychologists describe flow as being “in the zone,” a state of optimal performance. Athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs often talk about chasing this elusive feeling because it allows them to produce their best work, solve problems creatively, and even enjoy the process more.

What Does Flow Feel Like?

• Time Slows Down (or Speeds Up): Hours can pass in what feels like minutes, or the opposite, depending on the task.
• Effortless Focus: There’s no second-guessing or procrastinating—just seamless action.
• Heightened Clarity: You know exactly what to do and how to do it.

How I Found Flow

Reflecting on that week, I realised a few key factors helped me get there:

1. Clear Purpose: I went into the week knowing exactly what needed to be achieved. The stakes were high, and the goals were clear.
2. Big Challenges: The meetings and decisions weren’t routine—they pushed me to think strategically and creatively.
3. Undivided Focus: For once, I wasn’t multitasking. Each meeting and task had my full attention, which made all the difference.

It wasn’t a perfect week by any means, but I realised that flow doesn’t require perfection. It requires focus, intention, and being present in the moment.

Why Is Flow Important?

Flow isn’t just about feeling good—it has measurable benefits:

• Peak Productivity: You accomplish more in less time.
• Creativity: Ideas come to you faster and more freely.
• Satisfaction: Work feels less like a chore and more like a purpose-driven activity.

How You Can Create Flow

You don’t have to wait for flow to happen by accident. Here are some steps to set yourself up for it:

1. Set Clear Goals: What’s the one thing you want to achieve today? Be specific.
2. Match Challenge to Skill: Pick tasks that are just outside your comfort zone—enough to stretch you but not overwhelm you.
3. Eliminate Distractions: Turn off notifications, close unnecessary tabs, and focus on one thing at a time.
4. Find Your Peak Energy Time: Pay attention to when you feel most energised during the day and tackle your hardest tasks then.
5. Stay Present: Don’t overthink. Trust your skills and focus on the process, not the outcome.

How Adam Explained Flow Through Tennis

A good friend of mine, Adam, once explained flow to me in a way that stuck. He said, “When you’re playing tennis, you can’t physically think your way through every shot. If you try to, you’ll freeze up, second-guess yourself, and lose your rhythm.”

Instead, winning a match often comes from trusting your instincts and letting the game flow naturally. You rely on all the practice, preparation, and focus you’ve built over time. That’s exactly what flow is—using everything described above to stay in the zone and let your best work come through without overthinking.

Common Obstacles to Flow

Flow can feel elusive, but it’s often because of these blockers:

1. Multitasking: Divided attention makes flow impossible.
2. Fear of Failure: Second-guessing yourself kills momentum.
3. Lack of Preparation: Flow thrives when you’re ready for the challenge.

What Flow Taught Me

That week reminded me of a simple truth: flow is achievable when we align focus, purpose, and challenge. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being present.

Whether you’re leading a team, working on a passion project, or just trying to get through your to-do list, flow can be your edge.

Your Turn: Find Flow Today

• Take one task that feels meaningful.
• Set aside dedicated, uninterrupted time.
• Challenge yourself to be fully present.

It doesn’t have to be perfect—just intentional. You might surprise yourself with what you can achieve.

The Takeaway

Flow is like a superpower—it makes you feel unstoppable. But the truth is, it’s not magic. It’s a skill you can cultivate by being intentional with your time and energy.

What’s your experience with flow state? When have you felt most “in the zone”? I’d love to hear your stories—drop them in the comments!