Monday, October 24, 2011

Csikszentmihalyi's Methodological Innovation

For the past two weeks I have noted at random times (usually three to four times a day) what state of mind I am in and what I am doing.
I noticed that I produced more "flow" when I was in the comfort of my own home, without any disturbances. Looking at this chart:

When I am at home, I am relaxed for the simple fact that I am in the comfort of my own home. Like most, you usually feel more comfortable at home than any where else. I have control because I have access to everything that I need to complete a task and I am able to complete the task at the rate that I choose.

Most of the times when I felt I produced the most "flow" in the comfort of my own home was when I was working on assignments for school work. Also, most of the times I was by myself. That caused more relaxation for the fact that I didn't have to worry about relying on others or being bothered by others.

I noticed that the time of the day when my "flow" was at its highest was when it was between 6-10 pm. The reason that I decided for that being is because that is the usual time that I am able to relax in my house and get the work that I am needing to get done. During the day I am either at school or at work, when much "flow" is not produced. The reasons for that being because I am surrounded by people and difficult tasks that cause anxiety, worry and sometimes I become bored (during not-so-interesting lessons and when work is slow)
The way that I can increase this "flow" is by doing the majority of my work in my own home when I am by myself with little to no distractions and when I am feeling relaxed. I should not try to multi-task or do work when I am surrounded by many people. I also should not do work when I am under pressure or anxious.

This exercise made me realize that I certainly work best when I am relaxed and in my own household. That helps me know that my best work will come when I am in that setting. This was a very good exercise!