Coming Up

In the spring of 1980, as the new decade was taking shape, Paul released a deceptively simple song that would become his first #1 hit of the 1980s. "Coming Up" emerged from Paul's home studio experiments, where he played every instrument and created a DIY masterpiece that pulsed with infectious optimism. 

Somewhat surprisingly, John was among the song's biggest fans. According to several accounts, "Coming Up" was the last McCartney song that moved Lennon to action, inspiring him to return to the studio after hearing it on the radio in Bermuda. "I thought that was a great piece of work," Lennon later told interviewer David Sheff. 

As we explore our "Come Together" theme this month, "Coming Up" reminds us of another powerful bonding agent: optimism itself. Paul's unflagging belief that good things are on the horizon has always been his superpower – not just as a musical force but as someone who brings people together.

Research consistently shows that optimism is contagious. When we encounter genuinely positive energy, it literally changes our neurochemistry. Paul's optimism has always been his superpower; it expresses his worldview and invites others to share in it. 

Today, I’ll choose optimism, remembering that a "Coming Up" mindset creates an atmosphere where collective solutions become more possible.

Where in your life could you bring more "Coming Up" energy? Is there a situation where your optimism might be the catalyst for bringing people together around a shared goal or challenge?