The theory of flow

Throughout the course of a day or week, there are certain moments when a person feels completely caught up in what he or she is doing.

For example, a painter may paint for hours, concentrating intensely without any effort. A computer programmer may find himself or herself completely caught up in the challenge of developing part of a program. A chef may be happily lost in the act of preparing an important meal. Even a person who assembles parts at a factory may find himself or herself contentedly caught up in assembly work.

Psychologist Mihaly Csiksentmihalyi uses the term "flow" to describe this state of mind, in which a person feels intense inspiration and contentment. During moments of flow, a person feels highly creative, and activity becomes simple and effortless.