Use This Peak Performance Checklist to Get in the Zone at Work
When we activate a flow state, we’re able to do our best, most creative work.
Have you ever worked on a project and felt like you were fully in the zone? Maybe you were deeply absorbed in your task or felt like time was flying by. It’s possible that you were in what researchers call a “flow” state.
When we’re in a state of flow, we’re focused and clear about what we’re doing. We feel a sense of ease and competence. We even lose our sense of time. Our brain is being flooded with chemicals that increase our muscle reaction time, attention, pattern recognition, and creative problem-solving.
So how do we get into a flow state and unleash peak performance? It starts with creating the right environment. Use these five Microsteps as a checklist before your next deep work session, and see if you can access a flow state:
Arrange your workspace to maximize focus.
This might mean putting away clutter, setting up all of your necessary materials, or getting a glass of water. Think about what helps you focus and what distracts you, then arrange your workspace accordingly.
Let others know when you’re in focus mode.
Distractions can disrupt your flow state and your attention, so whether you work on a manufacturing line, in a lab, or in an office, let others know when you don’t want to be disturbed from your work. For some of us, this might mean verbally telling others, giving a status update on a messaging app, or putting up a physical sign at your workspace.
Pause or mute your email inbox while you’re doing focused work.
Minimize interruptions by downloading an add-on feature like Inbox Pause for Gmail, which lets you pause incoming messages and read them later, after you’ve completed your focused work.
If you can, add sensory cues like listening to white noise or lighting a candle.
Having a routine before you begin focus work can help your brain connect those sensory cues with a flow state. Try a white noise playlist, lofi beats, or diffuse some essential oils.
Set a clear goal for your deep work session.
Instead of referring back to your emails or your to-do list, pick a clear objective that you want to work on. Concrete goals can increase motivation and provide clarity for your working session.