Indeed, Csikszentmihalyi was investigating optimal human experience with this work. Everyone must want to know how to reach optimal human experience. That's rainbows-all-day-long territory. What is it, then? Flow is a state that arises from activities that use our core skillset but also challenge us, leading to increased motivation and immersion within what we're doing. The result is that we are more content, partially because performance is improved.
Lately, I've noticed a theme among my clients and, similarly, in myself. Many of us are in seasons that demand sustained focus and mindful energy. We are pushing toward something important while trying to protect our flow from distractions, self-doubt, and emotional noise. I often emphasize the value of self-check-ins and collecting your own data. But what happens when you are in such a driven, purposeful stretch that even pausing to reflect feels like it could knock you off balance?
Google launched its new video model Veo 3.1 with improved audio output, granular editing controls, and better output for image to video. It said that Veo 3.1 builds on May's Veo 3 release and generates more realistic clips and adheres to prompts better. The model allows users to add an object to the video and have it blend into the clip's style, Google said.
Golfers know it. Musicians know it. And anyone who's ever overprepared for a conversation knows it: Tension gets in the way of flow. When golfers try to control every variable, they often tighten up and slice the shot. But when they swing easily, trusting their preparation and instincts, the ball flies straighter and farther. In a world that glorifies the hustle and bustle, the idea of doing less to achieve more feels almost rebellious.