Yes and Flow

Some of the most precious and memorable moments in entertainment are acts of improvisation. Whether it is acting, directing, producing, performing music, leading a company, or managing an artist, the ones who do their jobs the best are the ones who know how to improvise. Improvisation or improv is the act of creating without preparing, being ready for the unknown, being able to adapt to changes, and build upon whatever is available, especially mistakes.

There is a common notion among people everywhere that when you are completely focused on the task that you are doing and you are in the moment, setting aside everything else such as worries and even time, that this is called being “in the zone”, or to have a “flow” going. Even when one begins to write a blog such as this one, a certain momentum can build up to where the words begin to pour through the keyboard and onto the screen. This “flow” or “zone” is the essence of improvisation and is an actual psychological science that is becoming more defined through new research thanks to continually advancing technology.

Improv can be practiced with almost any task in any field, but it is probably best expressed when doing something one enjoys. In business, leaders will be more effective at solving problems if they are able to improvise with their peers. Being able to agree with ideas already presented and to build upon them with statements will lead to solutions and new ideas much quicker than constant questions and critiques. In a sort of perpetual cycle, practicing improv techniques can also lead to more productive flow states and help to reduce time spent on negative thought processes and unproductive tasks. In general, improv is an effective way to deal with the unknown and an essential skill for any successful leader in any field, not just music or comedy.