Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi explores the concept of "flow," a state of intense focus and absorption that leads to happiness. The book delves into the nature of consciousness, strategies for improving life quality, and how flow can be achieved through physical and mental activities, work, solitude, and relationships, concluding that life can gain meaning through goal-oriented effort.

Informative

Contemplative

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.3

88,999 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Review Roundup

Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi is praised for its compelling insight into the psychology behind achieving optimum experience and deep engagement. Readers appreciate its applicability to diverse aspects of life but find it occasionally dense and academic, which may challenge casual readers. Overall, it is deemed an influential and enriching read for those seeking to understand and harness the state of flow.

Who Should Read Flow?

Readers who enjoy Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi are typically interested in psychology, self-improvement, and maximizing personal productivity. Similar works that appeal to this audience include Daniel Kahneman's Thinking, Fast and Slow and Steven Kotler's The Rise of Superman.

4.3

88,999 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, a Hungarian-American psychologist, introduced the concept of "flow" as an optimal state of consciousness that enhances creativity and well-being.

Csikszentmihalyi's research on flow has been applied in various fields, including education, sports, and workplace productivity, highlighting its universal relevance.

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"Flow" is considered one of the seminal works in positive psychology and has been influential in shaping the understanding of happiness and intrinsic motivation.

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Book Details

Pages

334

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre

Self-Improvement

•

Education

•

Psychology

Setting

1990s

Topic

Education

•

Leadership

•

Science & Nature

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult