Using Video Game Science For Flow.

Using Video Game Science For Flow. 🧪

We all heard the expression “Life is like a game”, right?

Well, it makes sense…

In real life - just like in video games - you get to upgrade your character, earn rewards, and overcome challenges.

But in video games, your challenges are scientifically designed for you.

Designed to get you into the flow state:

• The state where time doesn’t seem to exist.

• Where you perform at your absolute best.

• And where you’re having a great time.

You see, games are fun and addictive for many reasons. But one reason - is because they are masters - of what I like to call:

“Challenge Optimization.”

In most games, you start as a complete beginner(a noob).

The game will walk you through the basics and give you dummies to practice on.

Once you understand the fundamentals, you will face the first low-level obstacles or enemies.

You slowly start to understand the game and make progress…

As you make progress, the difficulty will increase. But so does your skill level.

This way, your skill level and the difficulty, will(if done correctly) be a perfect match:

Not too easy, not too difficult.

A perfect balance between skill and challenge.

And because of this balance, time seems to melt away and you're having a great time.

This is what we call:

The Flow State.

If it were too easy, you would get bored. If it were too difficult you would get frustrated.

But somewhere in the middle? Bingo!

This is where you experience:

• Peak Performance

• Deep Focus

• Enjoyment

Well, the same is true in our lives.

But in the real world, our challenges aren’t pre-programmed like in video games.

Thus, they often fall outside of “the flow zone” and cause some serious issues…

“What Issues?” You Ask.

Well, If you don't take on meaningful challenges…

If you don’t live up to the potential you know you can…

You will get “bored”.

This can create feelings of:

• Depression

• Low Ambition.

• Worthlessness.

• Disappointment.

• And more.

But if you take on too many challenges…

…or challenges that are not yet within your capabilities - you will get frustrated.

Overwhelmed.

Or even experience anxiety.

So, if you're currently not "flowing through life”, you are either:

• Not taking on enough meaningful challenges.

  or

• Challenges that are too difficult for you at the moment. 

Now, don't get me wrong. Life is tough and we can't always decide the challenges we face.

But...

We can try to optimize them and find this "balance" I've been talking about.

So How Do We Optimize For Flow? 🕹️

1. Identify Your Zone.

• Are you bored? You might feel purposeless or have low ambition.

  or

• Are you overwhelmed? Watch out for anxiety, burnout, and stress.

2. Level Up or Down?

• Are things too easy for you? Time to level up!

  • Learn a new skill.

  • Set bigger goals.

  • Start a challenging project.

  • Work on that business idea.

• Are things too difficult? Eliminate, bridge, or break it down.

  • Can you eliminate the challenge for now?

  • Can you break it down into smaller, achievable steps?

  • Can you lower your expectations?

    It’s ok to start small.

3. Keep Playing The Game!

You grow. Challenges unfold. And sh*t happens.

Regularly assess how you stand on the Challenge Matrix. Make adjustments where needed - so you can get back to the “flow zone”!

Ready To Level Up? 🎮

Trust me, by applying the principles of “Challenge Optimization”…

...You can unlock your true potential and experience life in a brand-new way. Like a great game!

Try it out and you’ll see what I mean ;)

As always, thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed today’s letter!

Your #1 fan,

- Elevate Start

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P.P.S Still here huh? Well, let’s see how many gamers are on the list…

Until next time!