The article discusses how to improve employee productivity and satisfaction based on the concept of "flow." Optimal flow is the state of performing a task within an optimal level of competence and comfort. If a task is too easy, it becomes routine and an individual is apt to become bored and lose their focus. A too difficult task could cause anxiety and reduce effectiveness. The author suggests that employers utilize research done in the area of "flow" to constantly challenge employees. The article discusses the methods employed by organizations like the U.S. Marine Corps and Outward Bound to challenge their respective students, and calls on corporations, particularly computer science firms, to more fully utilize their human capital.