Finding Flow
In 'Finding Flow,' Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi reveals the secret to achieving deep enjoyment and satisfaction in life through the concept of 'flow.' This psychological state, where individuals are fully immersed in the present moment, can transform mundane activities into extraordinary experiences. Drawing on research across various fields, the author outlines the conditions necessary to cultivate flow, whether in work, leisure, or relationships. With compelling examples and actionable insights, he challenges readers to rethink their approach to happiness and productivity. Dive into this enlightening exploration and discover how to unlock your potential for a more fulfilling life.
By Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Published: 1998
""Flow is the optimal state of intrinsic motivation, where we feel our best and perform our best.""
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
From one of the pioneers of the scientific study of happiness, an indispensable guide to living your best life. What makes a good life? Is it money? An important job? Leisure time? Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi believes our obsessive focus on such measures has led us astray. Work fills our days with anxiety and pressure, so that during our free time, we tend to live in boredom, watching TV or absorbed by our phones. What are we missing? To answer this question, Csikszentmihalyi studied thousands of people, and he found the key. People are happiest when they challenge themselves with tasks that demand a high degree of skill and commitment, and which are undertaken for their own sake. Instead of watching television, play the piano. Take a routine chore and figure out how to do it better, faster, more efficiently. In short, learn the hidden power of complete engagement, a psychological state the author calls flow. Though they appear simple, the lessons in Finding Flow are life-changing.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Finding Flow
About the Author
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi was a Hungarian-American psychologist best known for his groundbreaking work in the field of positive psychology and creativity. He is widely recognized for his concept of "flow," a state of complete immersion and engagement in activities, which he explored in depth in his seminal book "Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience." His other notable works include "Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention" and "Good Business: Leadership, Flow, and the Making of Meaning." Csikszentmihalyi's writing style is characterized by clarity and accessibility, making complex psychological concepts understandable to a broad audience. His interdisciplinary approach integrates insights from psychology, art, and science, influencing both academic circles and practical applications in various fields.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
- Published
- April 1998
- Publisher
- Basic Books
- ISBN
- 0465024114
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 192
- Genres
- Self-HelpPsychologyEmotional IntelligencePersonal Growth
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Road Less Travelled
Morgan Scott Peck
The Psychology of Money
Morgan Housel
Originals
Adam Grant
Emotional Intelligence
Daniel Goleman
Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child
John Gottman, Joan DeClaire
Raising Boys to Be Good Men
Aaron Gouveia
The Psychology of Executive Coaching
Bruce Peltier
Search Inside Yourself
Daniel Goleman, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Chade-Meng Tan
Emotional Equations
Chip Conley
The Art of Happiness
Dalai Lama XIV Bstan-ʼdzin-rgya-mtsho, Howard C. Cutler
Peak Performance
Brad Stulberg, Steve Magness
Cognitive Psychology
Michael W. Eysenck, Mark T. Keane
Authentic Happiness
Martin E. P. Seligman
Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself
Dr. Joe Dispenza
Psychology of the Digital Age
John R. Suler
The Road Less Traveled, Timeless Edition
M. Scott Peck
Sometimes You Win--Sometimes You Learn
John C. Maxwell
The Neuropsychology of Anxiety
Jeffrey Alan Gray, Neil McNaughton
Self-Made Success
Shaan Patel
Cupid's Poisoned Arrow
Marnia Robinson
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Andrew Huberman's Book Recommendations
Andrew Huberman is a renowned neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University, where he leads the Huberman Lab, focusing on brain function, behavior, and health. He has significantly contributed to the understanding of neural plasticity, particularly how the brain can change in response to experience and injury. Huberman is widely recognized for his engaging public science communication, which includes the popular "Huberman Lab" podcast that translates complex neuroscience topics into accessible insights for broad audiences. His research has been published in leading scientific journals, earning him numerous accolades and fostering a deeper public appreciation for neuroscience. Additionally, his work extends into practical applications, influencing fields such as mental health, vision restoration, and performance optimization.
View Collection
Alexis Ohanian's Book Recommendations
Alexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
View Collection
James Clear's Book Recommendations
James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
View Collection
Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations
Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.
View Collection
Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations
Brian Armstrong is a renowned entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding and leading Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange. His literary contributions include insightful writings on the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Armstrong's work has been pivotal in demystifying complex financial systems for a broader audience. Beyond his business acumen, his thought leadership in publications and public speaking engagements has cemented his status as a key voice in the fintech revolution. His dedication to innovation continues to influence the trajectory of global financial systems.
View Collection
Aubrey Marcus's Book Recommendations
Aubrey Marcus is an influential entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, best known for founding Onnit, a health and wellness company dedicated to optimizing human performance. He authored the acclaimed book "Own the Day, Own Your Life," which offers practical advice on improving daily routines for overall well-being. Marcus's contributions to literature extend through his insightful podcasts and articles that delve into personal development, mental health, and holistic living. As a thought leader, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue a balanced and fulfilling life. His work continues to resonate with a global audience, promoting a message of self-empowerment and holistic health.
View Collection
Michael Gervais's Book Recommendations
Michael Gervais is a high-performance psychologist who works with some of the world’s top athletes, business leaders, and artists to unlock their full potential. He is the co-founder of Compete to Create, a company that teaches individuals and teams how to perform at their best through mindset training and personal development strategies. Gervais is known for his work with the Seattle Seahawks, where he helped develop the mental toughness and resilience that led them to a Super Bowl win. His approach blends mindfulness, performance psychology, and the science of high achievement, which he shares through his podcast, Finding Mastery. Gervais' insights on mental performance have made him a sought-after speaker and consultant, helping people across various fields optimize their performance under pressure. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between the mind and body and believes that self-awareness and mental clarity are key to achieving greatness.
View Collection
Esther Perel's Book Recommendations
Esther Perel is a renowned Belgian psychotherapist and author, celebrated for her groundbreaking work in the field of relationships and sexuality. She is best known for her best-selling books "Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Erotic Intelligence" and "The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity," which explore the complexities of modern love and desire. Perel's insightful TED Talks have garnered millions of views, further establishing her as a leading voice on intimacy and human connection. She also hosts the popular podcast "Where Should We Begin?" where she provides a candid look into the intricacies of couples therapy. Perel's innovative perspectives have significantly influenced contemporary discussions on relationships, making her a pivotal figure in both psychology and literature.
View Collection
Chip Conley's Book Recommendations
Chip Conley is a renowned American hotelier, author, and strategic advisor celebrated for his innovative approach to hospitality and leadership. He founded Joie de Vivre Hospitality, which became the second-largest boutique hotel company in the United States, and later served as the Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy at Airbnb. Conley has authored several influential books, including "Peak: How Great Companies Get Their Mojo from Maslow" and "Wisdom@Work: The Making of a Modern Elder," which explore themes of leadership, emotional intelligence, and the intergenerational workplace. His writings have inspired many to rethink business practices and the role of wisdom in professional environments. Conley's contributions extend beyond literature, as he is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the realms of hospitality and personal development.
View Collection
Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations
Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.
View Collection
Ali Abdaal's Book Recommendations
Ali Abdaal is a renowned productivity expert, author, and YouTuber known for his engaging content on personal development and effective study techniques. A former doctor, Abdaal transitioned from his medical career to focus on sharing insights through his popular YouTube channel, which has amassed millions of subscribers. He is the author of "YouTube for Doctors," where he explores the intersection of medicine and digital content creation. Abdaal's work is celebrated for its practical advice, blending scientific research with personal anecdotes to help individuals optimize their lives. His contributions have significantly influenced the productivity and self-improvement community, making him a respected voice in the field.
View Collection
Claire Diaz-Ortiz's Book Recommendations
Claire Diaz-Ortiz is a prominent author, speaker, and technology innovator known for her influential work at Twitter, where she played a key role in promoting the platform's use for social good. She has authored several notable books, including "Twitter for Good" and "Design Your Day," which offer insights into leveraging social media for activism and optimizing personal productivity, respectively. Diaz-Ortiz is also recognized for her contributions to leadership literature, particularly through her co-authored works with Ken Blanchard. She is a sought-after keynote speaker and has been featured in major media outlets for her expertise in technology and social impact. Beyond her writing, she is committed to philanthropic endeavors and mentoring women entrepreneurs globally.
View Collection
Tim Urban's Book Recommendations
Tim Urban is an acclaimed writer and the co-founder of the popular blog Wait But Why, known for its deep dives into complex topics like artificial intelligence, procrastination, and the future of humanity. He is celebrated for his ability to distill complicated subjects into engaging and accessible narratives, often accompanied by quirky illustrations. Urban's TED Talk on procrastination has garnered millions of views, further cementing his reputation as a thought leader. His writing has attracted a dedicated following and has been praised for its blend of humor and insight. In addition to his blog, Urban is working on a highly anticipated book that promises to delve even deeper into the topics his readers love.
View Collection
Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations
Jordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and professor, best known for his work on psychology, political philosophy, and cultural criticism. His book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos became a global bestseller, offering advice on personal responsibility, order, and meaning in life. Peterson’s lectures, which cover topics like mythology, religion, and self-improvement, have garnered millions of views online, making him a polarizing figure in both academic and popular circles. He is known for his critiques of political correctness and his emphasis on individual responsibility. Peterson’s influence has sparked widespread debate about free speech, identity politics, and mental health.
View Collection
Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations
Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection“"Flow is the optimal state of intrinsic motivation, where we feel our best and perform our best."”
Finding Flow
By Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.