Examining experiences of flow in everyday life

Psychological flow allows an individual to immerse themselves in an activity while performing at a greater capacity. Experiencing such heightened performance is dependent on varying factors occurring prior to entering the flow state. Researchers have identified autonomy and performance anxiety as significant antecedents to the flow experience in sport, music, and classroom domains, but not in everyday life. This study aimed to characterise psychological flow in everyday performance activities (e.g., presenting an oral presentation, playing sport), and further explored whether performance anxiety mediates the relationship between autonomy and everyday flow experience. A sample of Australian residents completed two online questionnaires: the first survey was completed prior to an upcoming everyday performance activity and the second survey asked participants to reflect on their flow experience following their stated performance task. Data collection is currently underway. It is anticipated that findings will illuminate key features of flow in everyday life domains, and that, controlling for self-esteem, performance anxiety will mediate the relationship between autonomy and everyday flow experience. Study findings have implications concerning theories of motivation as well as practical implications for those in consumer and educational settings who might wish to facilitate individuals’ experiences of flow in everyday life