Flow in today's world

The Forgotten Playground of the Mind

As children, we often spent hours immersed in activities without worrying about time. Whether playing, drawing, or running – we were in the moment. As adults, we sometimes forget what it feels like to experience that kind of focus and joy. But the flow state offers us the chance to rediscover that lost sense of freedom.

So why is it that, as adults, we often find it harder to access this state? Why do we lose the ability to become fully absorbed in our work, hobbies, or relationships?

In our fast-paced, modern lives, many of us find ourselves juggling multiple tasks, constantly switching between responsibilities and distractions. It’s almost as if we’re trained to be distracted. In fact, studies suggest that our attention span has significantly decreased in the digital age, with constant notifications, emails, and the temptation to multitask diminishing our ability to focus. But this constant interruption isn't just frustrating– it’s a barrier to achieving the deep, meaningful engagement that flow provides. So, what’s changed?

Why Flow Has Become Rarer in Today’s Fast-Paced World

Flow, the state of deep immersion where we lose track of time and are fully absorbed in the task at hand. It was once an experience we could easily access as children. However, in today’s fast-paced world, finding flow has become increasingly difficult. So why is this the case?

1. The Rise of Digital Distractions

Smartphones, social media, and endless entertainment options constantly compete for our attention. These distractions fragment our time and energy, preventing us from staying focused long enough to enter a flow state. The result is a constant state of superficial engagement, where we skim the surface of tasks rather than diving deep into them.

2. Pressure to Be Constantly Productive

In a culture that emphasizes hustle and productivity, we often feel compelled to be constantly busy, but this doesn’t leave room for the quiet, immersive concentration required for flow. Instead of engaging deeply with one task, we find ourselves jumping between tasks, rarely achieving the deep focus that brings flow.

3. Fear of Failure and Perfectionism

Nowadays, perfectionism and the fear of failure are widespread. These pressures can prevent us from fully engaging in an activity. When we are focused on avoiding mistakes or striving for perfection, we disconnect from the present moment and lose the natural immersion that flow requires.

1. Digital Distractions & The Pleasure Trap

In a world where anything can be accessed with a simple tap, achieving a flow state has become harder than ever. Our brains are constantly bombarded with instant gratification—notifications, social media, and endless entertainment. We have become wired for constant stimulation. Any moment of discomfort—boredom, stress, or uncertainty—is quickly numbed by scrolling, streaming, or checking messages. This creates a cycle where our minds are always occupied but never truly engaged. But true fulfillment doesn’t come from bouncing between distractions; it comes from deep engagement, something that modern life often deprives us of.

But what exactly happens in our brain and body when we chase these short-term pleasures, and how does this differ from the deeper sense of fulfillment we can experience when in a state of flow?

Pleasure vs. Fulfillment: A Comparison

Pleasure is short-term, easily accessible, and often driven by external stimuli. It is what we experience when we scroll through social media, eat something sweet, or binge-watch a show. While these moments of pleasure can feel good in the moment, they don’t typically lead to long-term satisfaction or personal growth.

Fulfillment, on the other hand, is long-term and deeply rooted in personal growth, achievement, and meaningful engagement with the world. It’s what we experience when we are immersed in a challenging task, developing new skills, or engaging in creative activities that align with our values and passions. Fulfillment comes from being present in the moment, actively participating in life.

The Effects of Instant Gratification on Our Well-being

The impact of instant gratification on our well-being is significant. When we constantly seek pleasure without deeper engagement, we often find ourselves disconnected from the present moment and our true desires. This cycle can lead to feelings of emptiness, anxiety, and even depression. Our attention span shortens, and we lose the ability to deeply focus on tasks or connect with others on a meaningful level.

Instant gratification refers to the ability to experience pleasure or reward without delay. Every time we check our phone, get a like on a post, or receive a new notification, our brain gets a small hit of dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter. This momentary pleasure activates the reward system in our brain, encouraging us to repeat these behaviors. However, this process can become a cycle. The more we indulge in these quick, easy pleasures, the more we crave them. It is like a never-ending chase, and before we know it, we are caught in a loop of seeking one pleasurable experience after another but often leaving us feeling empty.

The brains reliance on these dopamine hits reduces our ability to focus and engage deeply with tasks, making it harder to experience deeper states of contentment or flow.

What Happens in Our Brain During Flow?

In contrast, fulfillment through flow allows us to experience moments of true joy, creativity, and growth. Engaging deeply with an activity not only improves our mental health but also boosts our overall well-being. We feel a sense of purpose and achievement that goes beyond surface-level pleasures. In the long run, this can lead to greater happiness and a sense of achievment.

It is a scientifically proven state in which we feel fully immersed in an activity. This happens when our skills are perfectly matched to the challenge at hand, allowing us to become completely absorbed in the task. Unlike the fleeting pleasure from instant gratification, the feeling of flow is much more profound and sustained. But it needs an active participation on our side.

When we are in flow, our brain releases a different mix of chemicals, such as: dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.

The Hidden Effort Behind Flow

Achieving flow isn’t just about doing what we love—it’s about engaging with challenging yet rewarding activities. The sweet spot for flow lies between comfort and frustration:

• Too easy? You get bored.

• Too hard? You get frustrated.

• Just challenging enough? You enter flow.

  
  

This means that effort is required to access flow. Yet, modern habits have conditioned us to avoid struggle—opting instead for effortless pleasure. But skipping the struggle also means skipping the reward of deep focus, mastery, and personal growth.

2. The Productivity Trap: When More Is Never Enough

It’s a paradox of modern life: despite unprecedented technological advancements, designed to save time and simplify tasks, people today feel more pressured, stressed, and overworked than ever before.

One might assume that with automation and efficiency tools, we’d have more time to rest, be creative, and enjoy life. Yet, the opposite seems true—our culture now glorifies busyness as a measure of worth, making true presence and deep focus harder to attain.

At the heart of this lies modern consumer culture. In a world driven by constant growth, profit, and competition, the idea of “enough” no longer exists. Instead, we are conditioned to always want more, newer, and faster—whether it’s products, achievements, or experiences.

Many industries, especially in manufacturing and retail, operate under a quantity-over-quality mindset. As a former Product Manager, I saw firsthand how businesses compete by producing more at lower costs, often outsourcing to cheaper labor markets to drive endless consumer demand. This mentality extends beyond business—it shapes how we view our own productivity:

• More output = more success → We are taught that doing more is always better, even if it comes at the cost of well-being.

• Fast results = higher value → If something doesn’t yield instant gratification, we often abandon it, making it harder to embrace deep, slow progress (the essence of flow).

• Convenience culture = no patience for discomfort → Unlike previous generations, who repaired instead of replaced, we are conditioned to seek instant fixes—whether in work, relationships, or personal growth.

To reclaim flow and mental well-being, we must unlearn the need for constant productivity and redefine success beyond endless consumption and busyness.

The constant push to be productive and the expectation of always being busy create an environment that is fundamentally incompatible with flow. The more tasks we juggle at once, the harder it becomes to experience the deep focus necessary to enter flow. Instead of engaging with a task fully, we split our attention, constantly switching tasks.

Additionally, the pressure to maintain high productivity without taking breaks or engaging in restorative practices sets the stage for burnout. Without proper rest and recovery, both our mental and physical health suffer, making it more difficult to engage with work or creative tasks in a fulfilling way.

The Role of Boredom

In the past, boredom was a gateway to creativity. With no instant entertainment, we imagined, created, and experimented. Now, boredom is avoided at all costs. Not only do we actively avoid boredom, but we are surrounded by countless apps designed to keep us constantly distracted. These endless sources of stimulation make it even harder to embrace moments of stillness and reflection.

However, boredom plays a crucial role in our mental well-being and creative growth. When our minds are unoccupied, they naturally begin to wander. This mental drifting allows us to reflect, make connections between ideas, and generate insights. Boredom gives our brains the space to untangle complex thoughts, spark new ideas, and build resilience.

By constantly filling every idle moment with scrolling, streaming, or notifications, we lose these valuable opportunities for self-reflection and creative thinking.

The Paradox of Multitasking and Burnout

Multitasking is often viewed as a skill in modern work culture. We are expected to juggle several tasks simultaneously, switching between emails, phone calls, video conferences, and online meetings. However, research has shown that multitasking is not as effective as we may think. In fact, it disrupts our ability to enter a state of deep focus, which is necessary for achieving flow. This fragmented approach to work not only undermines the experience of flow but also contributes to mental fatigue and, over time, increases the risk of burnout.

Another key aspect of modern culture, that interferes with flow is the expectation that we must always be available. With the rise of remote work, digital communication tools, and the ever-increasing reliance on technology, many of us find ourselves constantly connected to our phone. This expectation of constant availability has a significant impact on our well-being. The inability to disconnect makes it difficult to fully recharge and return to tasks with a fresh perspective. Without proper boundaries and rest, we are less likely to enter a state of flow and more likely to experience feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion.

The Burnout Epidemic: How Work Culture Has Changed Over the Years

Burnout, a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, has become increasingly prevalent in modern society.

Statistics highlight the growing crisis. The European Parliamentary Research Service states that: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health problems affected around 84 million people in the EU — roughly 1 in 6 individuals — and these figures have only worsened since then. Work-related stress is a significant concern for mental health in Europe. The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work estimates that over 40% of workers experienced increased stress levels due to the pandemic. Furthermore, nearly half of respondents (46%) reported facing intense time pressure or excessive workloads.

The shift from industrial work to the digital age has played a major role in this rise in burnout. In the 1950s, work was primarily structured around physical tasks with clear start and end points. Workers could leave the office and disconnect from work once they returned home. Today, with the rise of digital technologies, work has often become a 24/7 cycle.

The concept of burnout became more widely recognized in the 1970s, but it wasn't until the 1990s that the term was truly mainstreamed. Numerous studies confirm that job stress is one of the leading stressors for adults and has steadily intensified over the past few decades. The severity of work stress often depends on the combination of high job demands and limited control over one’s workload. Studies have shown that workers facing excessive demands with little decision-making power are at a greater risk of developing cardiovascular issues, such as heart attacks and hypertension.

Despite clear evidence that work-related stress poses serious risks, it is often dismissed as a normal part of adult life. However, experiencing chronic stress or burnout should not be accepted as inevitable. Understanding the underlying causes and prioritizing mental well-being is essential to reversing this trend.

Cultural Differences in Perception of Flow and Productivity

In many modern, high-paced work environments, the focus is often on productivity, efficiency, and constant output. However, across the globe, different cultures have varying perceptions of what it means to be productive and how flow is achieved. Interestingly, in some countries where things might not always function as smoothly or where the pace of life is slower, people seem to experience more happiness and a deeper connection with each other.

Slower Pace, Stronger Bonds: Southern Life Satisfaction

Countries such as those in Southern Europe and parts of Latin America, where life tends to operate at a slower, more relaxed pace, often report higher levels of life satisfaction despite facing economic challenges or inefficiencies in infrastructure. A key reason for this could be the value placed on relationships and human connection, which are prioritized over constant work. In contrast, in cultures where the “hustle culture” prevails, people may feel disconnected, isolated, or constantly stressed, which can hinder the ability to achieve flow.

Eastern Work Practices

When we look at Eastern philosophies, we see a different approach to balance, flow, and productivity. In Japan, for example, the concept of Ikigai, which translates to “a reason for being,” is central to both personal fulfillment and professional satisfaction. The idea is that work should not just be about earning a living but about finding meaning in what you do. This mindset aligns with the concept of flow, where the work or task is deeply satisfying and provides a sense of purpose.

Similarly, the Zen philosophy emphasizes mindfulness and being present in every moment. The Zen approach values the process as much as the outcome.

3. Fear of Failure and Perfectionism: Barriers to Achieving Flow

   
   

The pressure to be constantly productive, the rise of digitalization, and the self-optimization culture all contribute to a culture of perfectionism. While striving for excellence can be a positive force, perfectionism often comes at a cost—hindering creativity, increasing stress, and preventing individuals from experiencing flow.

Origins of Perfectionism and Fear of Failure

Understanding where this need for perfection stems from helps us see how it shapes our behavior:

• Self-Optimization Culture – Modern society pushes the idea that we must constantly improve, not just in areas of strength but especially in areas of weakness. Instead of building on natural talents, individuals are encouraged to fix perceived shortcomings. For example, in many educational systems, students must perform well across all subjects rather than focusing on their unique abilities. This mindset can lead to chronic self-doubt and an internalized belief that they are never “good enough.”

• Early Conditioning and Social Expectations – Many people grow up in environments where success is praised, but failure is met with disappointment. This can foster a fear-based approach to learning, where making mistakes is seen as a sign of inadequacy rather than a step toward growth.

• Comparison Culture & Digitalization – Social media fuels perfectionism by constantly exposing us to curated highlights of others’ lives. The ability to compare oneself to millions of others at any given moment intensifies feelings of inadequacy, reinforcing the idea that we must always do more, be better, and never fail.

• Capitalism and Productivity Pressure – The obsession with efficiency and output in modern work culture often equates worth with productivity. In environments where mistakes are costly and high performance is the only acceptable standard, perfectionism is not just encouraged—it’s required.

Embracing imperfection for more Flow and redefining failure as learning

The Impact of Perfectionism and Fear of Failure

Flow is about losing oneself in the moment, fully absorbed in an activity without self-judgment or distractions. But perfectionism, productivity pressure, and digital overstimulation disrupt this state:

1. Perfectionism Inhibits Flow – When the mind is preoccupied with achieving a flawless outcome, it becomes difficult to let go and engage deeply in the task at hand. Instead of enjoying the process, perfectionists often become trapped in an internal dialogue of self-criticism. They may fixate on a rigid mental image of how the final result should look, making it challenging to embrace spontaneity or allow the creative process to unfold naturally. This constant need for control not only hinders creativity but also creates anxiety, as any deviation from the imagined outcome feels like failure. By clinging too tightly to this fixed vision, perfectionists risk missing unexpected insights, new ideas, or moments of flow that arise when they surrender to the process itself. Letting go of that control — and trusting the journey — is key to unlocking deeper engagement and more fulfilling results.

   
   

2. Fear of Failure Blocks Experimentation – Flow requires taking risks, exploring, and embracing uncertainty. It's about diving in without a guarantee of success — and that’s exactly what makes it so powerful. When failure is feared, people tend to play it safe, sticking to what they know rather than venturing into new territory. But creativity thrives on those moments of experimentation and unpredictability.

   Think of it like cooking without a recipe — you might end up with a masterpiece, or you might accidentally invent a new kind of inedible glue. Either way, you're learning, adapting, and engaging deeply in the process. Flow doesn’t demand perfection; it demands curiosity and a willingness to get things wrong.

   In fact, some of the greatest breakthroughs have come from what seemed like mistakes. For example, Penicillin was discovered because Alexander Fleming didn't put all of his plates in bleach to sterilise them, and he left the lab window open. So, the next time things don’t go as planned, just remember — you might not have failed; you might be one step away from discovering the next big thing.

   
   

To truly reclaim focus, creativity, and joy, we must challenge the narratives that tie our worth to perfection, productivity, and digital validation. Flow is not about doing more—it’s about being fully present. By shifting from perfectionism to play, from optimization to curiosity, we can rediscover the magic of being lost in the moment.

The Growth Mindset in Art and Life

Often we hold fixed beliefs about what we can or cannot do – this is what Carol Dweck refers to as a fixed mindset. When we think we can’t do something, we limit our growth and potential. The trick here is that in order to learn, we need to be open to the process, even if we might fail.

Take creativity, for example. Many people believe creativity is something you're either born with or not—like a special talent only for a select few. If you can't paint, well, you better not pick up that brush, because we all know it's going to end up looking like a toddler's art project. (Don’t even get me started on the "I can't even draw a stick figure" crowd!)

But here's the thing: This mindset often comes from people who aren’t doing anything creative themselves. In sports, it's universally agreed that practice leads to improvement. If you run every day, your stamina increases. But with art? What's funny is that these same people rarely pick up a brush or pencil to test their theory. So, rather than fearing imperfection or avoiding the task altogether, we should embrace the fact that failure is part of the growth process.

When we shift from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset, we open ourselves to the possibility of improvement and flow. We become more willing to engage, to make mistakes, and to push through discomfort in the pursuit of learning. So, don’t let that first “not-so-great” painting stop you. Keep going, and soon enough, you’ll see improvements—just like with any other skill.

How to Shift to more Flow

1. Recognize the Difference: The first step is understanding the difference between pleasure and fulfillment. Acknowledge when you are seeking pleasure and notice how it makes you feel. If it leaves you wanting more or feeling empty, consider whether there is something deeper you can engage with.

2. Create Opportunities for Flow: Set aside time for activities that allow you to experience flow. Whether it is a hobby, work project, or creative pursuit, challenge yourself in a way that stretches your abilities and keeps you fully engaged.

3. Limit Digital Distractions: Start by reducing the time you spend on digital devices. Set boundaries around social media and notifications to prevent them from hijacking your attention. This will help you focus more on meaningful activities that bring fulfillment.

4. Cultivate Patience: Learning to delay gratification can help you build resilience and patience. Instead of seeking instant pleasure, try focusing on long-term goals that require sustained effort, such as learning a new skill or pursuing a personal project.

5. Unlearn the Need for Constant Productivity: To reclaim flow and mental well-being, we must unlearn the urge to be constantly productive. Redefine success as something deeper than endless consumption and busyness. Embrace rest, reflection, and moments of stillness as essential parts of a balanced life. Shifting our mindset from doing for results to doing for the experience itself.

6. Redefine Failure as Learning: Mistakes are part of the process, not a reflection of our worth. Instead of avoiding challenges for fear of imperfection, we should approach them with a growth mindset. Viewing failure as a learning opportunity allows us to see it as a stepping stone, rather than a setback. This shift leads to greater creativity, resilience, and ultimately, more opportunities to enter a flow state. Embrace imperfection.

7. Let Go of Comparisons: In a world dominated by social media, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others. Practice self-compassion and focus on your unique journey. Acknowledge your strengths and areas for growth without judgment.

Unlocking Creativity with FlowZone: Embracing the Power of Flow Through Art

FlowZone is dedicated to raising awareness about the powerful mental state known as flow — a state of complete immersion and focus where creativity flourishes, and time seems to disappear. Understanding that art is one of the most effective pathways to achieving this state, FlowZone actively promotes artistic exploration as a means of cultivating flow.

To foster this experience, FlowZone organizes events designed to immerse participants in creative activities that encourage deep focus and self-expression. These events provide a supportive space where individuals can connect with their creative side, free from the pressures of perfectionism.

In addition to these events, FlowZone offers a range of art-focused products aimed at inspiring creativity and helping people tap into their flow state more easily. By combining community experiences with practical tools, FlowZone empowers individuals to embrace the joy of being fully present in the moment, unlocking new levels of fulfillment and creative potential.