UBA047 The Need for Flow

Personal Reflections

Sometimes, I find myself wistfully recalling the intensity and seamless creativity of some of our past projects, where achieving a state of flow seemed almost second nature. This 'calling' is not merely about longing for the exhilarating highs of peak creativity and jamming with the team; it's also about facing the palpable frustration that emerges when that state feels elusive. When I don't experience flow, or try to kick start a 'thing', it feels almost like a withdrawal—a profound sense of missing out mixed with frustration over lost moments of pure creative engagement.

Flow, when it graced my workdays, was not just about productivity; it was the lifeblood of my creative spirit, making every challenge smoother and every task more fulfilling.

The absence of it now feels like a missing piece, a void where inspiration and satisfaction used to flourish effortlessly.

Embracing and Chasing Flow

I've come to realise recently that 'Flow' is an integral part of my creative identity, much like it is for athletes or military personnel who thrive under high stakes and tangible tension. The transition away from constantly being "in the zone" can be challenging. It often leaves one wondering: What replaces the adrenaline of the moment once the regular exposure to high-intensity environments dissipates?

Is chasing flow somewhat comparable to a narcotic? Reflecting on my formative years spent running dynamic football photoshoots, crazy activations, embarking on intense projects, and travelling the world, I realise these experiences were not just thrilling; they were addictive. The rush of moving from one pivotal project to another filled my days with excitement and a sense of unstoppable momentum.

Today, however, my definition of being in a creative flow has evolved. It's no longer just about the rush. It's about collaboration and synergy. Being in flow means being surrounded by like-minded individuals, working on projects that aren't just interesting but are transformative. It's about pushing the needle forward—not just personally or within a team, but across the entire scope of the projects we undertake.

A New Approach to Flow

Recognising the shifting nature of what drives my flow, I've begun to seek out and create environments that foster these new dynamics. This involves:

Working with Good People:

Collaborating with clients and people who are not only talented but also share a similar passion for pushing creative boundaries.

Engaging Projects:

Pursuing work that challenges the norm, or even your own 'norm', encourages innovation, and demands a high level of engagement and creativity in problem-solving.

Continuous Learning:

Embracing new techniques, technologies, and perspectives that keep my approach fresh and exciting. Even exploring AI tools to bounce and push ideas.

Conclusion

Flow, in its essence, is about connection—to one's work, to colleagues, and to the broader purpose of one’s creative endeavours. While I sometimes miss the unrelenting pace of my earlier career, I recognise that flow is still a pivotal part of my work; I need to manage my needs, expectations, and frustrations.

The pursuit of this deep engagement is what keeps my creative spirit alive and firing, ensuring that each project is not just a task to be completed, but a journey to be enjoyed.

Which is easier said than done!

Written by Mark