As I immerse myself in learning tracking skills in South Africa, I’m experiencing what psychologists call ‘flow state’ – that remarkable condition where time seems to dissolve as we become completely absorbed in what we’re doing. This experience has prompted me to reflect on why finding flow becomes increasingly valuable as we age.
Throughout my research into positive ageing, I’ve noticed that the people who maintain high levels of life satisfaction share a common trait: they regularly engage in activities that demand their complete attention. This isn’t about busy-ness; it’s about genuine engagement.
Flow states occur when we’re fully immersed in an activity that balances challenge with skill. Too challenging, and we become anxious; too easy, and we become bored. The sweet spot creates what Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, who first identified this psychological state, called ‘optimal experience’.
In my work with individuals transitioning through retirement, I’ve noticed that opportunities for flow often diminish unless intentionally cultivated. The structured environment of work frequently provides natural flow opportunities. Without this structure, we need to consciously create these experiences.
The benefits of flow in later life are substantial:
– Enhanced cognitive function
– Increased sense of purpose
– Reduced anxiety and rumination
– Improved life satisfaction
– Stronger sense of mastery
Learning tracking skills provides an excellent example. When following animal tracks, every sense becomes engaged. The mind quietens not through forced meditation, but through natural, focused attention. The challenge matches the developing skill level, creating perfect conditions for flow.
However, tracking is just one path. I’ve seen clients find flow through:
– Mastering new technologies
– Learning musical instruments
– Engaging in creative pursuits
– Volunteering in challenging roles
– Physical activities like golf or dancing
The key is finding activities that:
1. Challenge you at the right level
2. Provide clear feedback
3. Have concrete goals
4. Require full attention
5. Feel intrinsically rewarding
One of my clients, a former executive, discovered flow in pottery. “For the first time in years,” she told me, “I’m not thinking about anything except what’s directly in front of me.” This immersive experience provided exactly what her busy mind needed.
Identifying your personal flow triggers:
– What activities make you lose track of time?
– When do you feel both challenged and capable?
– What engages your full attention naturally?
– Which activities leave you feeling energised rather than depleted?
In planning retirement or later life transitions, consider building in regular opportunities for flow. This might mean:
– Taking up new hobbies with progressive challenge levels
– Setting specific learning goals
– Finding activities that require sustained attention
– Creating regular practice schedules
– Seeking activities with clear feedback loops
As our society grapples with increased longevity, maintaining psychological engagement becomes crucial. Flow states offer a pathway to continued growth and satisfaction, keeping us mentally sharp and emotionally fulfilled.
My current experience in South Africa reinforces what research shows: flow experiences contribute significantly to what we might call ‘successful ageing’. They provide not just enjoyment, but a sense of growth and mastery that remains important throughout our lives.
Next time, I’ll explore how different cultures approach the concept of ageing, sharing insights from my recent experiences with the Maasai people.
Reflective Questions – choose those that resonate most
- What activities bring you into a state of flow?
- How might you incorporate more of these experiences into your daily life?
- How has your relationship with flow-inducing activities changed as you’ve aged?
- What barriers prevent you from engaging in activities that create flow states? How might you overcome them?
- Can you recall a specific moment when you experienced flow? What made that experience different from routine activities?
- How does your current lifestyle support or hinder opportunities for flow?
- In what ways might seeking flow states influence your approach to retirement planning?
- Which of your past work experiences created flow states? How might you recreate similar experiences in retirement?
- What role does social connection play in your flow experiences?
- How do your flow experiences align with your sense of purpose?
- What new skills would you like to develop that might lead to flow experiences?
- How might understanding flow change your approach to learning at this stage of life?
