The Flow Experience in the Doctoral Journey

Abstract

It is easy for those starting their PhD to think they have a single focus and a single role: to complete their PhD. As with so many other occupations and roles in the twenty-first century, however, being a doctoral student is a role that requires juggling of many skills, identities, responsibilities, and challenges. It is easy for students to lose sight of their goal in the twisting, turning maze of candidature, but there are some tricks that can help. In this final chapter of Wellbeing in Doctoral Education, we provide students with some overarching strategies to not only survive their PhD but to thrive in academia. Therefore, this chapter explores the concept of the flow experience and the lessons doctoral students can learn from other professionals in order to flourish during their doctoral journey.