Flow states, also known as 'flow', are a state of consciousness that allows the impossible to become possible.
The study of consciousness and flow was pioneered by Wilhelm Wundt, a German physiologist, who emphasized introspection and attention.
Embracing uncertainty and pushing personal limits, as demonstrated by Albert Heim's mountaineering expedition, can lead to a new era of achievement.
Deep dives
The Four-Step Formula for High Performance
Frederick Nietzsche introduced a four-step formula for high performance: find your passion and purpose, attack it creatively, embrace suffering, and unleash the will to power. He believed that less than 10% of the population could achieve high performance and challenged the herd mentality. Nietzsche saw art as a means to tap into states of animal vigor and unleash creativity. He emphasized the importance of self-expression and overcoming oneself. His ideas align with concepts in modern psychology and neuroscience, validating his insights.
Wilhelm Wundt and Experimental Psychology
Wilhelm Wundt, a German physiologist, introduced experimental psychology in 1873, separating it from physiology. He emphasized introspection and focused on attention, deciphering the sweet spot for optimal experiences. Wundt's work laid the foundation for the study of consciousness, psychology, and flow. His experiments paved the way for the exploration of human cognition, perception, and the interplay between attention and optimal performance.
The Science of Spirituality Emerges
In the early 1870s, Albert Heim, a Swiss geologist, embarked on a climbing expedition with his brother and friends. Despite lacking experience as mountaineers, they faced a blizzard and treacherous conditions. Heim's daring decision to move forward shifted the course of history. Although not recognized as a pioneer in mountaineering, his adventure marked the point when the golden age of alpinism gave way to a new era. Heim's courage and determination demonstrated the value of embracing uncertainty and pushing personal limits.
Connections between High Performance and Spirituality
Nietzsche and other philosophers recognized the shared attributes between the paths of high performance and spirituality. Both require finding passion and purpose, overcoming oneself, embracing suffering, and unleashing creativity. Their teachings implied that the pursuit of greatness encompasses both inner and outer challenges. These intersections provide valuable insights into the nature of extraordinary human performance and the profound connection that exists between spirituality and the quest for excellence.
The Profound Altered States in Near Death Experiences
A study conducted by a scientist named Albert Heim investigated near death experiences (NDEs) of 32 climbers who survived near-fatal accidents. He found that 95% of the study group reported similar strange events, such as panoramic vision, time dilation, and a sense of calmness and mental clarity. These experiences occurred even when the individuals were not actually in life-threatening situations but believed they were. This suggests that NDEs can be more physiological than paranormal, challenging the idea that these experiences are mystical communications from beyond. Risk activity and the impact it has on consciousness are explored, highlighting how it can improve mental states and cognitive functioning.
William James: A Pioneer of High Performance and Psychological Exploration
William James, a Harvard philosopher, psychologist, and physician, made significant contributions to the understanding of high performance and the exploration of consciousness. He experimented with introspection and concluded that consciousness is a stream made up of moments or particles, similar to the idea of waves in physics. James believed in the power of habits and attention as crucial levers for self-actualization and high performance. He emphasized that individuals can live far below their potential by not utilizing their mental resources. James also delved into the spiritual side of human experiences and recognized the profound impact of mystical experiences on psychological well-being. He saw the connection between spirituality and high performance and advocated for harnessing the potential of the nervous system to achieve optimal functioning.
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"Whenever you see the impossible become possible, you see a state of consciousness known to researchers as 'flow'." ~ Steven Kotler
ABOUT THE GUEST:
STEVEN KOTLER is a New York Times bestselling author, award-winning journalist, and Founder and Executive Director of the Flow Research Collective. He is one of the world’s leading experts on human performance.
His books include The Art of Impossible, Stealing Fire, and The Rise of Superman. His work has been translated into over 40 languages and appeared in over 100 publications, including the New York Times Magazine, Wall Street Journal, TIME, Wired, Atlantic Monthly, The Harvard Business Review and Forbes.
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