Book reviewer hat is on–at least for a short you-must-read-this shout out. I would do the same for my fave books, but not everyone stands on the subway platform reading aloud like an idiot the poetic sentences of Louise Erdrich. But this book is for everyone. FLOW was written by Mihaly Czikszentmihalyi (let’s call him C) back in 1990 and resurrected for me by my best friend. Part scientific study, part sociological examination, part self-help, C breaks down all the elements of that easy feeling called flow–when the clock stops, inner worry chatter stops, and focus aligns.
No, you don’t have to meditate all day to slip into this feeling. Flow can happen when playing tennis, working on an assembly line, playing chess, folding your socks, love making, or doing almost anything, as long as it engages you. Sounds easy? Not exactly. Some people, those with an autotelic personality, are naturally better at it. C guides us in how to maximize the potential of flow. He unwraps our culture’s discontent, the location of consciousness, pleasure (J. Gandin Le!), chaos, the body in flow, the flow of thought, work as flow, solitude, and life themes. How might we experience deep enjoyment on a regular basis, if not always? No matter who you are; no matter where you are; no matter your situation. It’s worth the read, worth the effort. Because we all know that you can’t save the world until you start to get a grip yourself.
I thought this book was totally fascinating and gave it to my friend, Pete, who works in finance. He says it’s totally influenced both his golf game and his work life. Kinda boring writing at times (Didn’t you think Molly?) but the concepts are all really interesting and practical.
Yes, the writing is not captivating. He slips into scientific speak quite often; but, when he uses examples of people, it’s hard not to be right there with him. Thanks, Courtney. “Practical” is the right word. Concepts are practical, which is refreshing!