OK, I realize I haven't posted in spell. Oh well, these things seem to come in batches.
If you want an interesting, somewhat goofy read, take a look at Psychocybernetics by Maxwell
Maltz, a plastic surgeon back in the 50's and 60's who noticed that, after receiving cosmetic improvements, his patients seemed to achieve more because of an enhanced self-image.But what about that title? Psychocybernetics.
Well, the "psycho" part is easy (as long as you're not a Bates hotel guest)...something dealing with psychology.
What about the "cybernetics" part? According to reliable ol' Wikipedia, it is the study of self-regulating systems.
Think back to the 1950's. You know, cold war and all that. There was a fair amount of research into guided missile systems. Basically, one question of importance: how can a missile self-correct if it strays off course. Not a simple task if you think about it (although today's self-driving Google cars make that old missile stuff seem like child's play).
Maltz took this concept of guided missiles and applied it to life. Instead of chastising yourself over errors, simply think of them as course corrections. The goal stays the same but you must constantly correct your path as you go.
I find this a very healthy way to view our days of labor practicing our instruments. You're always moving forward and always refining and adjusting your course. Some days require bigger corrections than others but you're always moving forward to that destination.
Sorta like a nuclear missile headed towards Moscow. Now, I realize that's an awfully dark image (especially if you're on the receiving end of all those course corrections), so let's imagine instead a guided missile delivering something pleasant......bunny rabbits?
