AWE- Week 3

“Without awe life becomes routine…try to be surprised by something every day. Try to surprise at least one person every day.”

-Mihalyi Csikszentmihalyi 1934–2021

Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi was a renowned Hungarian American psychologist, co-founder of positive psychology, and creator of flow theory. His research on “optimal experience” showed that deeply satisfying moments often arise in a state of consciousness called flow. In this state, people feel focused, creative, fully engaged, and absorbed in what they are doing. You may have experienced flow while playing an instrument, listening to beautiful music, training, competing, exercising, or dancing. Artists, musicians, and athletes often describe this experience, but anyone can cultivate it. Any activity that requires concentration can bring greater clarity and, over time, lead to a satisfying moment of flow. Flow leads to awe.

Here are a few steps to help create the conditions for flow and bring more awe into your life.

Skill and challenge: find the balance between just hard enough

Set clear goals: know what you need to achieve.

Eliminate distractions: Set aside 20 minutes at first in a place that is quiet.

Have the tools and resources at hand

Warm up routine to set your mind up for the activity: brief meditation or breathwork, or push ups. It doesn't matter, just do the same thing each time.