Reconnecting with Awe: How to Get Back into a Flow State and Rediscover Joy

As kids, we naturally found ourselves in moments of awe—whether it was marveling at a sunset, feeling small beneath a sky full of stars, or getting lost in play. But as adults, especially for those of us who are constantly striving, we often lose that sense of wonder. We get caught up in achievement, productivity, and perfection, leaving little room for awe or flow.

Awe is that feeling of wonder or amazement when you encounter something beautiful, vast, or extraordinary. For many overachievers, awe can feel out of reach—we get so focused on doing more that we miss life’s small, awe-inspiring moments. But awe is powerful. It reminds us to slow down, appreciate beauty, and let go of the constant pressure to achieve.

Flow, on the other hand, is the state of being completely absorbed in a task, where time seems to disappear. For perfectionists, reaching flow can be hard because of constant multitasking and high expectations. Yet, flow is key to both creativity and happiness. When we’re in a flow state, we’re more relaxed and productive, and we feel more fulfilled.

So, how does awe help us access flow? Awe resets our perspective. It takes us out of the narrow focus on daily tasks and opens our minds to the bigger picture. When we experience awe, we’re more likely to be fully present, which makes it easier to enter a flow state.

Here are some practical ways to bring awe and flow into your daily life:

1. Find awe in nature. Nature is one of the most reliable sources of awe. Take a walk outside, visit a park, or sit by a body of water. Even small moments—like looking up at the sky or watching a bird—can spark awe and help you feel more present.

   
   

2. Revisit childhood activities with music. Think back to activities that made you feel alive as a child—roller skating, drawing, or building something. Adding music to these activities can enhance your flow. Music has the power to transport you back to those carefree moments and help you immerse yourself in the present. Whether it’s a favorite song from your childhood or something that makes you feel energized, let the music guide your flow.

   
   

3. Engage in novelty. Trying something new can reignite your sense of wonder. Overachievers often get stuck in routines that leave little room for new experiences. By stepping outside of your comfort zone—whether it’s learning a new skill, traveling, or simply doing something different—you can create space for awe and flow.

   
   

4. Practice mindfulness and breathwork. Mindfulness can help you slow down and appreciate the awe in everyday life. Simple practices like mindful breathing or short meditation sessions can calm the mind and open it up to moments of awe. When your mind is clear, it’s easier to slip into a flow state.

   
   

5. Create space for uninterrupted focus. Set aside time each day to focus on something you love without distractions. Whether it’s a creative project, exercise, or even a work task, giving yourself uninterrupted time allows you to fully immerse in the process and find flow.

   
   

Awe and flow are not just passing experiences—they’re essential for living a joyful, fulfilled life. By actively seeking out awe and creating conditions for flow, you can break free from the constant pressures of overachievement and reconnect with a deeper sense of purpose and presence.

Take a moment to think about what brings you awe and what activities make time disappear. Then, experiment with the tips above and watch as more joy and creativity flow into your daily life.

Until next time,

Fran