Flow is the secret to human performance from "summary" of The Rise of Superman by Steven Kotler
Flow, as described by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, is a state of optimal consciousness where we feel our best and perform our best. It is that elusive moment when everything comes together effortlessly, when we are completely absorbed in what we are doing. In this state, our sense of self vanishes, time dilates, and performance skyrockets. Flow is not just a nice-to-have; it is a must-have for achieving peak human performance. When in a state of flow, our brains produce an avalanche of neurochemistry that enhances performance. Neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, anandamide, and endorphins flood our system, leading to heightened focus, creativity, motivation, and even pain relief. The brain also shifts into a state of hypofrontality, where the prefrontal cortex, responsible for self-monitoring and self-criticism, temporarily shuts down. This allows for quick decision-making, instinctual reactions, and a sense of effort...
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