"Going with the flow"- Where did it come from
"Going with the flow" is a phrase that is used often to describe those who are open, relaxed and accepting of whatever comes their way. The phrase is seen everywhere from pop culture to philosophy, but where did it come from and how did it become such a popular concept in today’s society? In this essay, we will answer this question, as well as explore the implications of going with the flow in our lives.
Flow is an excellent example of an approach that advocates for flexibility and adaptation to circumstances. While some people may feel more comfortable with having “control,” or planning everything out, advocates of the “creator” concept suggest that it is more important to follow the Flow and be open to new opportunities and experiences . To those who are creators, it is important to take risks and make the most of the happening that life offers us.
Flow is what author, Joseph Campbell, calls “the process of creative response,” wherein the artist follows their creative inspiration and creates something new. This mindset has pros and cons, as some artists feel fulfilled and often have successful outcomes, while others feel like their creative intuition just isn’t up to par. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to decide whether they wish to be a Creator or a Control when it comes to their creative works.
Flow is a deeply personal experience. It can be defined as a highly productive state of concentration where the individual is overly engaged and enjoys the experience. However, with great reward surely comes great risk, such as feeling overwhelmed and not knowing where to begin. This can evoke a lack of confidence and a feeling of Jealousy towards those who are seemingly able to generate great work without effort,but it is important to remember that flow is a process and, with practice, anyone can become good at it.
Going with the flow is the principle of not making a specific plan and trusting life to take you in the right direction - usually without all the worry of making a plan and sticking to it. This approach to life can be seen in sharp contrast to the usual modus operandi of planning and having a set goal in life, and for many, it can be a liberating way to live. Living in the moment and embracing whatever life throws at you can bring a new level of enjoyment and unexpected opportunities. As University of North Dakota professor John A. Patrick writes, "going with the flow requires ease and confidence, even when there is little sense of control in our lives." For those people who are looking to make a change in their life, going with the flow is a unique and powerful way to take control of your journey.
Going with the flow has a long history, tracing back at least as far as ancient Chinese Taoism, which promotes living life in a way that comes naturally to the individual. Its teachings celebrate naturalness, peace, and living in the moment, which aligns with the modern notion of going with the flow. In contemporary thoughts, this notion is seen not only in Taoism but also in cultures that exalt Eastern spiritual beliefs, Western religious traditions, and modern psychoanalytic practices, suggesting a timeless strategy for positively managing life’s twists and turns.
