Originally published in 1990.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction -- 1. The concept of flow -- 2. The anatomy of consciousness -- 3. Enjoyment and the quality of life -- 4. The conditions of flow -- 5. The body in flow -- 6. The control of consciousness -- 7. Work as flow -- 8. Enjoyment and the changing self -- 9. Cheating chaos -- 10. The making of meaning -- Notes -- Bibliography -- Index.

Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience: This influential psychology book explains the concept of “flow,” a state of complete absorption in an activity characterized by focused attention, enjoyment, a sense of control, and reduced awareness of self and time. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi explores how people achieve optimal experiences when their abilities are well matched to meaningful challenges. Through examples from work, education, creativity, relationships, sports, and everyday life, the book explains how flow can improve motivation, happiness, performance, and personal development. It ultimately argues that learning to create and experience flow can help individuals build a more satisfying and purposeful life.