Task Control and Dispositional Mindfulness on Work-Related Flow

Flow states are positive and productive periods that leave those who experience them feeling fulfilled, accomplished, and proud. It may be possible to increase positive feelings and experiences while at work by facilitating flow state achievement. The current study investigated the effects of increased perceived task control on flow state achievement. Additionally, dispositional mindfulness was measured to determine if a direct effect of dispositional mindfulness on flow exists and whether task control is less important to those with high dispositional mindfulness scores. Challenge-skill balance was assessed as a research question. Participants were 173 undergraduate students from California State University San Marcos. Level of task control was manipulated experimentally through a choice of flow-inducing activities (number or word puzzle). The relationship between task control, dispositional mindfulness, and flow was examined through moderation analyses. Hypothesis one, which predicted that there would be a relationship between dispositional mindfulness and flow, was supported. It was further hypothesized that there would be a main effect of task control, such that more control would lead to more intense flow states; however, this hypothesis was not supported. Finally, the hypothesis that the relationship between task control and flow would be moderated by dispositional mindfulness, was not supported. Overall, this study found that more intense flow states were achieved when participants were high in dispositional mindfulness and when the challenge-skill balance was appropriate.