“The old philosophical culture held that will power was the key to successful execution. Mind needed to discipline the body to behave in a certain way. Will was a matter of strengthening one’s resolve. It was a matter of applying mental perseverance over time. Rhythm, however, cannot be achieved by willful effort. The performer will often choke if he tries to improve a performance by tightening up or consciously forcing a correct routine.
Rhythmic performance is more a matter of trusting one’s instincts and letting go.” (…)

“Rhythm does not come in a steady state of high performance, but in periods of intense effort followed by relaxation. Unlike steadfast virtues, rhythm involves a controlled flow of energy over a period of time. The hard part is usually the beginning. Once the energy flow has started in the right way, rhythm can be maintained seemingly without effort. Indeed effortless activity is an important characteristic of performance in this mode.Rhythmic performance is natural and easy. But sometimes it will not come, no matter what a person does. As they say in show business: ’ When you’re hot, you’re hot; when you’re not, you’re not.’ Rhythm has its ups and downs.”

“Is this the infamous “in the zone” state that we hear so much about?

Let’s be clear about this.The zone is not about trying hard. You can’t force it.The zone feels effortless because you’re operating at a higher state of consciousness. Although athletes in the zone are incredibly locked in, their focus is never forced.
Same thing goes at work. You’ve never had to push hard to find a great insight. If you think on your best performances or purest experiences in life, were you trying to exert a force on it? Most of the athletes I work with tell me that when they find the zone they simply “let go” and just absorb themselves in the present moment. It’s a selfless experience. The zone is not about trying hard. You can’t force it.”