What Predicts Flow at Work?

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the experience of flow at work. It exemplifies the nature of the subjective experience of work-related flow. Most of the research on flow has focused on voluntary leisure and sporting activities. However, research has also shown that the experience of flow occurs in work-related activities. Csikszentmihalyi has defined flow as state in which people are so deeply involved in an activity that nothing else seems to matter. Both qualitative and quantitative research on flow across diversity of work and leisure activities has indicated that optimal experience consists of six core components. In the work context, Bakker has operationalized the flow experience with three dimensions: absorption, enjoyment, and intrinsic motivation. Work-related flow, particularly as operationalized by the WOrk-reLated Flow inventory (WOLF), has many conceptual similarities with the concept of work engagement. Work engagement is defined as a positive, fulfilling, work-related state of mind that is characterized by vigor, dedication, and absorption.