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Discussion on: A guide to Flow states for programmers

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Daragh Byrne

Thank you. I think the idea of flow has deep roots in Wu-wei and the Taoist expression in particular. Of course, what I write about draws deeply on others - Csikszentmihalyi of course, who was concerned for happiness, and operated in a reductionist culture, hence the anatomy lesson explanation of the experience (his writings, most notably the book Flow, are much more qualitative).

I think you are correct, keeping the feedback loop in mind regardless of duration is of deep value. It depends on how well-trained your attention and concentration are - I find many people can't do this, so a more mechanical approach to examining it pays off for the beginner. Of course, as you practice, it becomes instinctive and you can see the longer term patterns.

I think technique in general - in meditation in particular - is eventually to be let go of. But I've seen many benefit from training wheels along the way.

Thanks for engaging!