Google Doodle today celebrates the life and work of Mihály Csíkszentmihályi, a Hungarian-American psychologist who is known as the “father of flow.” Csíkszentmihályi’s research focused on the psychology of happiness and optimal experience. He coined the term “flow” to describe a state of intense concentration and enjoyment that is often experienced when people are engaged in challenging and meaningful activities.
Csíkszentmihályi was born in Hungary in 1934. He studied psychology at the University of Budapest and later moved to the United States to pursue his doctorate at the University of Chicago. After graduating, he taught at a number of universities, including the University of Chicago, Harvard University, and the Claremont Graduate University in California.
Csíkszentmihályi’s research has had a significant impact on the fields of psychology, education, and business. His work has helped to explain why people find certain activities to be so enjoyable and rewarding. It has also led to the development of new methods for helping people to achieve a greater sense of well-being.
Csíkszentmihályi’s Doodle features a colorful illustration of a person in a state of flow. The person is surrounded by a variety of objects and activities, all of which are associated with happiness and fulfillment. The Doodle also includes a quote from Csíkszentmihályi: “The best moments in our lives are not the passive, receptive, relaxing times, but the ones when we are challenged and stretched to our limits.”
Csíkszentmihályi died in 2021 at the age of 87. His work continues to inspire people around the world to seek out happiness and fulfillment in their lives.