Psychological Flow Psychological flow is a positive state of being fully present in the here and now through an intentional activity. It can be understood that this state is the ultimate point of focus that brings about creative and positive insight. Csikszentmihalyi and Csikszentmihalyi are quoted with referring to psychological flow as “the holistic sensation that people feel when they act with total involvement.” The important part of psychological flow is that one is engaged in an activity that is meaningful, purposeful, and intentional. For example, if a person is painting a picture and finds themselves fully engaged and focused on painting this picture, they are experiencing psychological flow. The following are examples of obtaining psychological flow: - Hard Charger – adventurous sports, non-traditional activities that are high adrenaline and high intensity
- Flow Goer – meditation, yoga, and more mind-body connection activities
- Deep Thinker – activities that involve deep reflection and insight such as gardening, hiking, playing a musical instrument
When incorporating psychological flow, it is important to reflect on your thoughts and feelings as well as your breath to help to balance. Focusing on breath helps to relax the body and mind and be more fully present in the moment. It can also be helpful to utilize brainstorming and reflection time to gain increased insight on goals and ideas. It can be helpful to utilize visualization or a vision board to begin your journey towards psychological flow and help spark a creative route. International Boost Self-esteem Month January is also International Boost Self-Esteem Month. Self-esteem is crucial to having a positive relationship with ourselves and others as well as leading a happy and successful life. Self-esteem includes our self-identity, self-security, self-confidence, belonging, and competence. All of these areas are important to having a healthy relationship with ourselves. The following are key aspects to a healthy self-esteem: - Understanding one’s strengths
- Having a healthy relationship with self and others (this can be evidenced when you feel comfortable with who you are and sharing that identify with others)
- Setting realistic and appropriate personal expectations
- Understanding one’s needs and the ability to express those needs
The following are ways to boost self-esteem: - Create personal and positive affirmations (ex, I am strong, I am proud of myself for overcoming that hurdle)
- Spend time journaling or reflecting on your feelings to increase encouragement, validation, and emotional processing
- Incorporate a creative activity such as drawing or writing
- Find an activity or hobby that you are good at or makes you feel good about you
- Incorporate healthy communication and boundaries with others
- Make time for self-care daily (emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being)
- Talk with a supportive friend or family member
Finally, it is important to understand that high self-esteem doesn’t mean that you selfish or self-centered. Positive self-esteem means having a balance of self-love and boundaries with self and others that are realistic and encouraging a compassionate viewpoint on life. It is ok to be proud of who you are! If you feel that you have low self-esteem or greater challenges with your relationship with self, reach out to a professional. Mental health professionals can help you to navigate and explore challenges with self-esteem as well as support and encouraged personal growth. | 
