Finding Your Flow: A simple exercise to rediscover what gives you energy in your career. 

This is the second in a series of seven exercises designed to help you reflect on and gain perspective on the career choices you are making.

Have you ever been so absorbed in an activity that you completely lost track of time? Maybe hours slipped by without you noticing, and you felt energised and fully focused. This experience is called Flow, a concept introduced by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. Flow happens when you’re fully engaged in a task that challenges you just enough to keep you interested, but not overwhelmed.

Remembering what takes you into Flow can be a powerful tool to help you make better career decisions. When your work regularly brings you into this state, you’re not only more productive but also more fulfilled.

How to Identify Your Flow Activities

Set aside a few minutes with a notebook or your phone and reflect on these questions:

• When was the last time you lost track of time while working or doing something?

• What were you doing? Who were you with?

• What kinds of tasks or projects make you feel energized, focused, and “in the zone”?

• Are there activities you look forward to because you know you’ll get absorbed in them?

Write down whatever comes to mind. Think beyond your job and consider hobbies, volunteering, or even everyday tasks. Look for patterns in the activities, environments, or challenges that help you reach Flow.

Bringing Flow Into Your Career

Once you’ve identified your Flow activities, think about how they relate to your current job or the career options you’re exploring. Here are some ways to bring more Flow into your work life:

• Seek out projects that match your Flow activities. If you find Flow in problem-solving, look for roles or tasks that challenge you intellectually. If creativity gets you into Flow, find ways to include it in your work.

• Make small changes in your current role. Sometimes, you don’t need a new job and you just need a new approach. Could you take on different projects, adjust your workflow, or collaborate with people who inspire you?

• Use Flow as a guide when making decisions. When considering new opportunities, ask yourself if the role will give you chances to experience Flow regularly. This can help you choose work that will be satisfying and motivating.

• Balance challenge and skill. Flow happens when the task is neither too easy nor too hard. If you feel bored, look for ways to increase the challenge. If you feel overwhelmed, focus on building your skills or breaking tasks into manageable steps.

• Share your insights with others. Let your manager or team know what kinds of work help you do your best. This can lead to better support and more fulfilling projects.

Bringing Flow into your career isn’t just about productivity.  It is about giving yourself permission to find joy and meaning in your work. When you regularly experience Flow, you’re more likely to feel motivated, creative, and satisfied.

Again, this is the second in a series of seven exercises to help you reflect on your career journey. If you missed the first one, jump onto my LinkedIn profile to catch up.

As always, wishing you a flourishing career.

Katherine