In Vivo The Secrets of Flow State: Mastering Peak Performance | In Vivo With Dr. David Rosen | Ep. 20
Jun 19, 2025
Dr. David Rosen, a cognitive neuroscientist at Johns Hopkins, explores the science of flow states and creativity. He discusses his research on jazz improvisation and how musicians enter flow by dis-engaging certain brain areas. Rosen shares insights into how intrinsic motivation and the right mindset can enhance performance. He also delves into the role of psychedelics in unlocking creativity and reflects on his personal journey in music, revealing how balance and connection are key to achieving peak performance.
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Three Core Dimensions Of Flow
- Flow comprises three core dimensions: absorption, effortless fluency, and intrinsic motivation.
- All three must be present together to meaningfully label an experience as flow.
Shape Your Set And Setting
- Manage your 'set' by reducing anxiety and aligning mindset before performance.
- Adjust the 'setting' to minimize stressors so small adaptations guide you toward flow.
Child Performer Calmness
- Rosen describes his four-and-a-half-year-old daughter performing calmly because she lacked performance anxiety.
- He contrasts that with older children developing self-consciousness around third or fourth grade.
