Characteristics of Flow
States and The Zone
•Personal examples?
Is It A Special Case of
Intrinsic Motivation?
•Flow and peak performances;
peak experiences
The Flow Model
Essential elements of flow
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The Flow Model
Essential elements of flow
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The Typical Context of Flow
A balance of skill and challenge
Flow: How to Achieve It
(assume skills & challenging task present)
Use precompetitive & competitive plans (vs
distractions, interruptions of routines)
Achieve optimal arousal before performing
Maintain an appropriate focus (stay in
the present; task focus not outcome or “other”
focused)
Achieve optimal physical preparation and
readiness. (vs injury, fatigue)
Exhibit confidence and positive mental attitude &
self talk; (+) team interaction.
(vs doubt, worry; team disruptions)
Factors That Disrupt Flow
Non-optimal environmental and
situational influences
Stoppage in play
What opposition is doing
Negative refereeing decisions
Inappropriate, negative, or no feedback;
(e.g., leading golf tourney)
Factors That Disrupt Flow
Problems with physical readiness
or physical state
Lack of physical preparation
Injury during the competition
Fatigue
Factors That Disrupt Flow
Problems with team performance or
interactions
Negative talk on the field
Team not playing well
Lack of team interactions
Inappropriate focus
Worrying about competitor’s ability
Daydreaming
Loss of concentration
Self-doubt
Putting pressure on self
Controllability of Flow States
Although athletes cannot control flow,
they can still increase the probability
of its occurring
but….how do we really know flow?
Researching flow: Dangers of
retrospective introspection
Retrospective
introspection
Researching flow, peak performance &
peak experiences
• recall greatest moment
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compare successful vs unsuccessful athletes
identify optimal states/zones (IZOF)
identify mental prep strategies
asking top athletes, coaches, psychologists etc.