The entry into the zone happens much faster when you are passionate and, this is one of the reasons why I always recommend being really devoted to something, in a way to achieve the desired success. 

When you are in a zone, the perspective of time is different. You finish your task sooner than other conditions. 

You finally reach a state of relaxation that goes far beyond the normal state. It is also relevant to know what you are talking about it, and once you have learned the new skill, whatever it is, it is easier to enter the zone.