It’s the first week of a brand new month, in a brand new year and I should be full of enthusiasm, ready to write the next chapter in my life – but instead I’m hesitant.
I know I’m feeling this way because I have high hopes for 2012 and in order to achieve my new goals, I’m asking myself to take an even BIGGER STEP out of my comfort zone than I have before. So for the past few days I’ve been trying to give myself a little positive encouragement.
The term attaboy is often used to express encouragement, approval or admiration. Coincidentally, it’s also a song title on Yo-Yo Ma’s latest recording: The Goat Rodeo Sessions.
For me, this music is pure magic. It has the power to lighten my mood and alter my physical state, so that I can use my imagination in a positive, constructive way. (Note: A book I read recently said that stress is the result of using our imagination to think of negative outcomes).
It’s not surprising that the word HARMONY means both ‘tuneful sound’ and ‘internal calm’. So if you’re feeling on the same wavelength, you might consider finding some new music that makes you feel harmonious.
Go ahead and watch this video for Attaboy and see for yourself.
Cheekytree 
It is like the music itself is a vision for the year! Great post!
Thanks Susy. I like your way of seeing things. 🙂
I appreciate the definition of stress you shared. A nice simple way to describe negative stresses. I also loved the video. It’s so cool to see a player like Yo Yo Ma playing music that’s “fun”. Despite the fact that the music might be simpler then we’re used to hearing him play, he brings a playfullness to the music that’s great to see. It’s a nice reminder to me that music doesn’t have to be difficult or complicated to make an emotional impact on the listener.
Thanks Steve. Yes, this definition of stress (using our imagination to think of negative outcomes) is empowering to me. It seems like common sense that I should use my power of imagination for good outcomes, not bad.
Thanks for sharing – what a beautiful recording. Something I will be picking up to add to our collecction. I would also highly recommend Yo Yo Ma’s ‘Songs of Joy and Peace’.
Thanks Andrea, I will check it out.
Loved the video..Sheri -2 steppedin the lobby of the Hotel Monte Alban in Oaxaca Mexico.. no stress here!! Can hardly wait to see THE NEXT BIG STEP..2012 should prove to be a year of new horizons!!
Thanks Diana. Big Hug.
May your New Year be “attaboy” filled, stressless and harmonious.
Check out the Kennedy Centre Honours show honouring Yo Yo Ma….it’s amazing!
Thanks Cheryl, I will check it out.
Beautiful peaceful music, thanks for sharing ….
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Wow! Thanks for the nomination. I love your blog(s) too!