Every pilot can achieve peak performance. Here's how to reach it (safely and effectively):
You've likely experienced this: you're flying, and everything else seems to disappear. Hours go by like minutes. This is known as the Flow State, a mental state where you’re 'in the zone'. It’s shown to enhance:
- Creativity
- Well-being
- Physical performance
I’ve felt it many times while flying. It feels like you fly better by trying less. This state isn’t just for athletes; it’s essential for pilots, too.
How do we enter Flow State in the cockpit?
- Pursue Activities with 'Challenge-Skill Balance'
I see this in flight training. Maneuvers should be challenging but achievable, with the guidance of a flight instructor to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- If it’s too easy: Boredom.
- If it’s too difficult: Anxiety.
- Find the sweet spot in the middle.
- Create an Environment for Deep Concentration
During my flight training, I developed a pre-flight checklist that helps me enter the zone. This includes reviewing flight plans and conducting thorough pre-flight inspections.
- Establish a consistent pre-flight routine.
- Remove distractions—focus is key.
- Do Things that Produce Dopamine
Listening to a playlist of calm and focused music can help set the mood. Enjoying the learning process and celebrating small victories keeps training enjoyable and productive.
- Dopamine helps trigger flow states. Simple ways to increase dopamine include:
- Listening to music.
- Having fun with training exercises under supervision.
Main Lesson: We’re all capable of more than we know. Enter flow states by challenging yourself, making it easy to focus, and doing things that boost your mood. Stay safe and fly high!
That’s it for today. Thanks for reading, and happy flying!
