The old paradigm

The old paradigm of work feeling difficult, challenging and  exhausting has been ingrained in our system deeply through centuries of western cultural heritage. And it is still very much present in our society everywhere. A great depiction of this is that there are 888,500 Instagram posts with the hashtag #hustleharder. And only 204,600 with the hashtag #worksmarter.

Flow state in the real world

The counter movement to this grind is the people who are seeking a state of flow. This is where things flow more easily, more fluid, your creativity is heightened, productivity goes up and the enjoyability of the work is elevated. This sounds like the place to be in. I mean, why make it hard if you can make it easy and more effective?

But the reality is that it is difficult to distinguish the difference between a state of flow and your comfort zone. Being in flow doesn’t mean the work always emits sparkles and you have fairy’s buzzing around you to help you with the tasks. There are days where you have to show up whether you like it or not. When you are truly in flow, it is in those moments where you can get yourself out of bed, show up and do it anyway.

The entrepreneurial journey

Going on an entrepreneurial journey might be one of the best ways to grow as a human being. To grow personally is like a crab growing too big for its shell. It’s uncomfortable and even hurts. The same is true in our business. For some of us the discomfort unfolds when we need to step on (the digital) stage. For others it is when taking the role of a sales person. But remember; often the thing we're called to do is also what we most resist. Whatever it is for you, showing up and doing the work will help you grow. Both in business, as well as personal.

Finding balance

So where is the balance? When you are truly in flow it is like you are a vessel for the universe flowing through you. But if you work yourself to the bone and make yourself sick, that vessel is not going anywhere. So check into the wisdom of your body and ask “Am I in grind or in flow?” Be honest, is there tension you need to release first? What are dominating thought patterns? Do you need to do anything to get back in the zone first? If so, then do it. But don’t use “flow” as an excuse to stay in your comfort zone. Because the magic (maybe even with some fairies) happens when you step outside of it into the unknown.

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Thanks for what you are doing in the world,

Kai & Michael

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