Flow, The Psychology of Optimal Experience, is a much-celebrated study of harmonious existence presented by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, a world-renowned psychologist and creator of "Flow." In this book, Csikszentmihalyi presents many concepts surrounding the development of flow, including the history of the consciousness. Along with extensive supporting material and case studies, Csikszentmihalyi seeks to define optimal experience and detail how the reader may achieve it through setting a series of goals and working toward those goals with a strong resolve.

Controlling the consciousness may seem like a daunting task, if it is possible at all. The author claims that reordering thoughts and actions through a series of steps is possible and gives examples on how one might achieve flow. Although it is clear that the consciousness is something more complex than most people can imagine, there are ways to focus desires and needs to achieve the ultimate in personal and professional satisfaction.

As an academic, Csikszentmihalyi presents clear examples of his theories. There may be some excessive reference to case studies, which muddy the point. The back of the book contains many notes and references for additional research if the reader so chooses.

The author understands that there are many factors that may or may not interfere with the pursuit of happiness. Into each life, adversity will fall; no one is immune. Each life will also receive its share of happiness. It is the method by which one deals with the internal and external forces that will determine the amount of joy present in one's life.

Flow is not a how-to book or simple formula to changing one's life. Rather, it is a guide to explain to the reader what factors are present in determining joy, and how one may change or accept those factors to achieve great benefits.

All in all, Flow, The Psychology of Optimal Experience presents a grand psychological theory that may make one realize that peace, harmony and happiness are within easy reach. There are many factors to take into consideration, but perhaps all the childhood teachings were really much more important than we realized. If one sets an ultimate goal, focuses and moves forward with great resolve, anything is possible.