In commemoration of Mihály Csíkszentmihályi’s 89th birthday, Google pays tribute to the eminent psychologist, acclaimed for his groundbreaking work on the concept of the human flow state.
Today, the search engine’s homepage is graced with a mural honouring the legacy of Mihály Csíkszentmihályi, who passed away in 2021. Google’s Doodles are a testament to individuals whose contributions have left a significant mark on the world.
This distinctive design is not only featured in the UK but also resonates across the US, portions of Latin America, and various regions in Europe — a special nod to Hungary, the ancestral home of his parents.
Who is Mihály Csíkszentmihályi?
Mr. Csíkszentmihályi spearheaded a profound exploration of happiness and creativity, coining the term “flow” which has become a cornerstone in the vocabulary of psychologists and wellness educators in the present era.
His entry into this world was marked on September 29, 1934. Growing up in Fiume, a place then known as Italy but now identified as Rijeka, situated within Croatia’s borders, Mr. Csikszentmihalyi had his roots deeply embedded in Hungarian heritage. His early years were punctuated by encounters with poverty as his family journeyed in pursuit of sustenance. At a certain juncture, he actively assisted his father in managing a restaurant in Rome.
Google aptly remarked, “The profound suffering that Csíkszentmihályi witnessed during the war inspired him to dedicate his life to understanding the science of happiness.” This impetus led him to explore the realms of art, philosophy, and religion in his quest for enlightenment.
Having delved into the philosophical works of Carl Jung, Mr. Csíkszentmihályi embarked on a transformative journey to the University of Chicago at the tender age of 22, driven by an ardent determination to unravel the intricacies of human psychology.
What Constitutes the State of Flow?
In pursuit of happiness and enhanced productivity, early seeds of what would later be coined as “flow” stemmed from the astute observations of painters.
The painter’s profound absorption in their craft led to a lapse in their sense of time, often foregoing basic needs such as sustenance, hydration, and rest.
With a PhD in Positive Developmental Psychology in hand by 1965, Mr. Csíkszentmihályi conceived initial models for “flow,” a term inspired by the rhythmic course of water. His scholarly journey persisted post-graduation, culminating in the publication of the seminal work, “Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience,” in 1990. It ignited a paradigm shift, revered by academia, productivity mavens, and prominent figures in the online sphere. The tome’s wisdom transcends linguistic boundaries, available in over 20 languages.
“Esteemed business magnates, statesmen, and sports mentors extol its profound insights into the dynamics of productivity and well-being,” noted Google.
Following the completion of his studies, Mr. Csíkszentmihályi established his residence in the United States alongside his spouse, Isabella Selega. Their academic pursuits echo in the endeavors of their two sons.
On the 20th of October, 2021, Mr. Csíkszentmihályi peacefully passed away at his abode in Claremont, California, at the venerable age of 87.
