Steven Kotler

Steven Kotler is an award-winning journalist and New York Times bestselling author who has written extensively about peak performance and the science of flow. He is the founder and director of the Flow Research Collective, a research and technology think tank that uses science and technology to unlock individual and team performance, solve complex problems and optimize creativity. A sought-after public speaker and three-time National Magazine Award-nominated journalist, Kotler has been a keynote speaker and panelist at many prestigious institutes around the world.

Kotler’s work has been seen everywhere from Rolling Stone Magazine to The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times, and The New Yorker. His many bestselling books include ‘The Rise of Superman: Decoding the Science of Ultimate Human Performance’, ‘West of Jesus: Surfing, Science and the Origins of Belief’, ‘The Drucker Difference: What the World's Greatest Management Thinker Meant to You and Your Organization’, and the ‘Ready Player One’ series.

One of Kotler’s most read and praised books is ‘The Rise of Superman: Decoding the Science of Ultimate Human Performance’. It attempts to uncover the science surrounding why and how some people—like athletes, entrepreneurs, and adventurers—go beyond their limits and perform exceptionally. The book delves into the state of consciousness known as ‘flow’, which Kotler refers to as a state of optimal performance that some people are able to achieve.

Kotler studied flow states for five years and he also draws on personal experiences while writing his books. ‘The Rise of Superman’ describes the four crucial elements of flow as that it’s an optimal state of consciousness; it’s energy efficient; it produces heightened levels of performance; and it feels good. He argues that ‘flow’ is not only important for those chasing high-key physical activities, but that it’s also about efficiency, productivity, and balance in life.

His series of books, starting with ‘Ready Player One’, follows the story of a teenager in the year 2044 whose life is centered around a virtual three-dimensional space known as the Oasis. Kotler’s description of the advanced gaming technology used in the book and how it affects the world is a palpable glimpse of the future of digital entertainment. The story allows the reader to imagine a world in which virtual reality has become part of everyday life.

Kotler’s work is rooted in research and science, and his books present a fascinating look into the process of peak performance. He analyzes both the research and his own experiences in the pursuit of dissecting the science behind performance, creativity, and flow. With his books, readers have the privilege of hearing his stories, being immersed in his curiosity, and being able to reflect on their own experiences.

Overall, Steven Kotler’s work is thought-provoking, informative and deeply personal. He has written an impressive range of books and each one of them offers his readers an insider look at what it takes to achieve peak performance, be creative, and achieve a flow state. For anyone looking to broaden their understanding of peak performance, Kotler’s work is sure to provide the necessary knowledge and inspiration.