Mindfulness & Balanced Efficiency
The Power of Balance: How Flow Theory Applies to Problem-Solving and Interpersonal Relationships
When we think of efficiency, we often imagine achieving maximal results with minimal effort. Positive Psychology introduces us to the concept of Flow Theory, which suggests that balancing certain traits can help us enter a timeless, meditative state called “flow.” Flow is achieved when our skill level is matched with a challenging task. However, the balanced state is not limited to sports, video games, or musical instruments; we can apply it to other areas of our lives, such as problem-solving and interpersonal relationships.
Applying Flow Theory to Problem-Solving
When we approach problem-solving in our daily lives, we focus on two aspects:
- The “Why” of the problem
- The “How” of the solution
The goal of this focus is to achieve clarity that leads to action. Similar to flow theory, the optimal state for problem-solving is a balanced zone between the “why” and the “how.” In this zone, we can take efficient action that solves our problem. If we focus too much on the “why” of the problem and not enough on the “how” of the solution, we may feel stuck in the problem. Conversely, if we focus too much on the various potential solutions (the “hows”), we may experience analysis paralysis, where we cannot make a decision due to the overwhelming number of options. Both being “stuck” and experiencing “analysis paralysis” are different types of being overwhelmed or out of balance. However, in the middle zone, where there is a balance between the two, we get clear options and decisive action.
The Importance of Balance Between the Thinking and Feeling Mind
We all have a “Thinking mind” and a “Feeling mind.” A balance between the two leads to the flow experience of a “Wise Mind,” a concept from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
When we are out of balance, we can become overly emotional (too much feeling-mind) or overly intellectual (too much thinking-mind). It is generally not a good idea to make decisions when we are feeling overly emotional or overly intellectual, although there may be times when we need to lean in one direction to counterbalance the other. The balance area is a zone, not a line, and there are many shades of gray.
Understanding Yin and Yang in Flow Theory
In addition to being a popular Eastern concept, Yin and Yang can also be applied to the concept of Flow Theory. Just like in a relationship, balance is crucial to achieving a state of flow in our lives.
The Yin and Yang represent the feminine and masculine energies respectively, and just like in a relationship, it’s important to have a balance between these two energies in order to achieve flow.
A relationship with an imbalance of feminine or masculine energy can result in chaos, control, or manipulation. However, when the feminine and masculine energies are balanced, the relationship is in harmony and flows better.
It’s important to note that there may be times when one energy is more dominant than the other, but overall, there should be a balance between the two. In a healthy relationship, the balance shifts back and forth from Yin to Yang, only passing through a 50/50 split of energy.
Applying Yin and Yang in Interpersonal Relationships
Considering that every individual has their own balancing act going on, we can apply the concept of Yin and Yang to interpersonal relationships as well. By understanding the interplay between the balance zones of two individuals, we can create a more harmonious interaction.
For example, if one person is more thought-based while the other is more emotion-based, they can find flow by mindfully tuning into their wise mind and finding a middle ground. The flexibility of one person’s wise mind can often create the flow zone for the interaction, even if the other person is not as mindful.
By being mindful of our own balancing act and that of others, we can create more balanced and harmonious relationships, both personally and professionally.
Learn more about Counseling in Austin.
Jonathan F. Anderson, LPC-s has worked in the helping profession since he started college in 1990. After completing his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas, Austin in 1994, he attended the highly-regarded University of Minnesota to earn his Master’s degree in 1997. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor and is recognized as a Board Approved Supervisor by the State of Texas Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. Jonathan has completed Level-2 of the Gottman Method of Couples Counseling, and in 1998 received training from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation in Advanced Critical Incident Stress Management & Debriefing. To learn more about Jonathan’s practice, click here: Jonathan F. Anderson, LPC-s.
