Do you listen to TED Talks by the rich and famous to stay motivated? Does it work or does your energy run out as the video ends? That’s not because you lack the will to do what it takes to be successful. It’s your attention span that comes in the way of your goals. As reported by Fortune India, the attention span of Gen Z has dropped to as low as nine per cent. If you’re worried about your decreasing attention span as well, a new Instagram trend could be just the thing you need.

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Locking in to enter your flow state

The concept is not about cutting off from the world or romanticising burnout. It is a mindset shift where you stop living in reaction mode and start acting with intention. Instead of jumping between tasks, tabs, and thoughts, you decide what deserves your attention and for how long. Locking in is choosing depth over distraction and clarity over chaos, especially in a world designed to pull you in ten different directions at once. Over time, you reach a state of flow.

What is a flow state?

A flow state is when your mind is fully immersed in one task and everything else fades into the background. It happens when your skills and potential perfectly match with the level of difficulty involved and the task feels engaging, not overwhelming. In such a mental state, you become less aware of yourself and your surroundings because your focus is fully channelled into what you are doing. This minimises distractions and boosts your motivation to reach the finish line. More so, you no longer force concentration, it comes to you naturally.

But in today’s world when we are so overstimulated, we find it hard to enter a flow state. It’s not because we lack willpower, but because our attention is constantly being interrupted.

How to lock in to enter the flow state

Entering flow state isn’t just about concentration. It’s about creating a personal ritual that tricks your brain into focus. Beyond clearing your desk or putting your phone on silent, follow these unique ways to lock in.

1. Start small and warm up your brain or body

Before any task, give yourself five to 10 minutes to settle in. If you are studying, skim the material first. If you are exercising, do a few warm-up stretches. For creative work, doodle or brainstorm freely. If you’re reading a book, preview a few pages or set up a cosy space. These mini warm-ups get your brain or body ready without forcing you to concentrate.

2. Simplify your environment

Reduce distractions around you. Close extra tabs or apps, silence your phone, tidy your space, and remove anything that distracts you. If you are exercising, clear clutter around your workout area. If you are reading, put away screens. Flow is easier when your environment signals that what you’re doing is the only thing that matters right now.

3. Create consistent pre-task rituals

Routines are tiny signals for your brain to focus. Set up little rituals to trick your brain into locking in. Have a warm cup of tea while reviewing your study list, listen to your favourite song as you lace up for a workout, or light a candle before starting a painting. Do them often enough, and focus starts flowing almost automatically.

4. Experiment with unique rituals

Switch up your workspace, paint on a balcony, write at a café, or exercise outdoors instead of your usual room. Pick a colour for your notebook or workout mat that signals flow. Even tiny movements like stretching, shadow boxing, or a quick dance break can flip your brain into focus mode.

5. Use sensory cues

Light a scented candle, use essential oils, or chew flavoured gum while working or reading. Smell and taste signal to your brain that you should focus on a task.

6. Visualise the outcome

Spend a few seconds imagining completing your task. See yourself finishing that workout, completing a study chapter, finishing a painting, or turning the last page of a book. Visualisation reduces resistance and helps your brain enter the flow state more easily.

7. Reward yourself

Treat yourself after small achievements. Drink water or enjoy a snack after a study block. Take a short walk after finishing a workout set. Play your favourite song after completing a writing session. These small rewards keep your brain engaged and motivated while maintaining focus.

Locking in: The mindset shift for 2026

Locking in for 2026 is not about doing more, but about doing what matters with full presence. It’s about embracing the long game, valuing consistency over rushing, and trusting that true depth builds up over time. You do not need to optimise every hour or turn your life into a productivity project. You just need to decide what deserves your energy and show up for it fully.

So, when are you locking in to enter the flow state?

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FAQs

Q1. How long does it usually take to enter a flow state?

It varies from person to person, but most people slip into flow state after 10-20 minutes of uninterrupted focus regularly for a week.

Q2. Can we enter a flow state without cutting off distractions completely?

Yes. While reducing distractions helps, entering a flow state is more about intentional engagement than total isolation.

Q3. Is flow state only possible during work or productivity tasks?

No. You can enter a flow state during exercise, reading, cooking, painting, or any activity that fully engages you.

Q4. Why does multitasking make it harder to lock in?

Multitasking constantly resets your attention, preventing the sustained focus needed to enter the state of flow.

Q5. Can locking in improve mental health over time?

Yes, consistently entering the flow state can reduce stress, improve mood, and create a stronger sense of control and satisfaction in life.