Deep Flow: Scientific Schema for Complex Problem Solving

Complex problem solvers are occasionally able to solve the problem by framing the problem properly and by engaging deeply to solve them. But there are times when the solvers experience an impasse and the problem just can’t be solved. We propose this as a pivoting point in complex problem solving, which requires the solver to, counter-intuitively, detach from the problem (instead of spending more effort in framing the problem and/or focusing on solving it). This disengagement prepares the ground for willful synthesis of both processed and unprocessed information streams – either automatically or through an interactive process. The outcome of synthesis is an aggregated solution which transcends the impasse and enables the solver to find an innovative and complete solution. This is often accompanied with a feeling of attunement, an intuitive sense of completeness. While it is possible to solve complex problems in an ad-hoc way, we outline a scientifically underpinned schema that governs this process. This process, which we refer to as Deep Flow, has four steps: (1) Frame, (2) Engage, (3) Disengage and (4) Synthesize. Deep Flow culminates in a feeling of attunement and creates positive affect. As solvers intentionally engage with Deep Flow, they can invoke the necessary steps at will. It empowers solvers to solve complex complex problems efficiently; also, the sense of attunement inspires them to tackle more complex problems in a comprehensive manner.