Flow experiences in everyday activities of Japanese college students: Autotelic people and time management

Abstract

Abstract: This study examines the characteristics of flow activities, executive skills of time management and goal directedness related to autotelic personality styles. Japanese college students (155 men and 168 women) completed the Flow Experience Checklist, Evaluation after Everyday Life Activities Scale, Time Management Skill Scale, Experiential Time Perspective Scale, and Multiple Mood Scale with reference to five everyday activities. The results suggest that flow activities are related to the process of personal growth and self-advancement, and also provide pleasure and motivation for subsequent activity. Autotelic people reported the highest amount of flow experience in everyday activities, and the highest scores on time management and goal directedness. © 2009 Japanese Psychological Association.