4 Signs You’re in “Flow”—and 3 Ways to Get Back There
Sep 24, 2025
We all know the feeling of being "in the zone." Hours pass like minutes, the world fades away, and whatever you're doing feels effortless—even energizing. That’s flow.
Flow is that sweet spot where challenge meets skill, where you're fully immersed in what you're doing and the outside world just… disappears. Psychologist Mihaly Csíkszentmihályi described flow as a state of complete focus and fulfillment, where time bends and satisfaction deepens (Csíkszentmihályi, 1997).
Sometimes I find flow when I’m writing, sometimes when I’m training a group that’s really dialed in—and, unexpectedly, sometimes when I’m reorganizing a closet (don’t judge me). But like most of us, I don’t live in flow all the time. And when I’ve been out of it for too long, I start to feel fragmented, uninspired, and just… off.
If you’ve been feeling that way too, it might be time to find your way back.
4 Signs You’re in Flow
1. You Lose Track of Time
Whether it’s been 10 minutes or 3 hours, you look up and go, “Wait—how is it already that late?” That’s flow pulling you into presence.
2. You Feel Energized, Not Drained
Even if what you’re doing takes effort, you come away feeling charged up rather than depleted.
3. You Forget About Yourself (In a Good Way)
There’s no self-consciousness, no overthinking. You’re not analyzing—you’re just doing.
4. It Feels Effortless, But You’re Fully Engaged
It’s not lazy or passive. You’re actively participating, but it doesn’t feel like a slog. It feels like being in alignment.
Try This: 3 Ways to Get Back Into Flow
1. Start Small—With What Already Works
Think about a time you experienced flow recently. What were you doing? Try doing a small version of that again—just 10–15 minutes is enough to re-engage the state.
2. Create a Flow-Friendly Environment
Eliminate distractions. Put on music that helps you focus. Set a timer. Let others know you’ll be unavailable. Flow needs space.
3. Choose Activities That Challenge You (But Not Too Much)
Flow thrives in that sweet spot between boredom and anxiety. Pick something that stretches you just a little—enough to stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed.
Flow reconnects us with purpose, presence, and peace. It’s not just about productivity—it’s about coming home to yourself. This post was inspired by Cultivating Inner Peace. If you’re exploring how to live more fully and gently, this book is a beautiful next step. You can find it HERE.
References
Csíkszentmihályi, M. (1997). Finding Flow: The Psychology of Engagement with Everyday Life. Basic Books.
