The best of Morning Musely: The Infectious joy of Coldplay
How to be a 'radiator' and not a 'drain'.
Recently a friend reminded me how much I used to hate Coldplay.
I can’t remember why. It could have been due to the repetitive nature of their songs at the time.
To be fair you may have shared that view, as we sloooooowly meandered from Parachutes (‘it was all yellow’) to A Rush of Blood to the head (‘Nobody said it was easy…’).
Songs that are now classics. So what would I know.
But watching the mad scenes of their recent Australian tour, how could you not be a convert to their infectious joy? (I’m sure you’ve seen versions of this on your friends’ socials by now, but just in case check out this video from a recent concert once you’ve finished reading this).
Every single person leaving that gig would have gone straight back in and done it all again.
Why?
Coldplay are radiators.
I sat in a boardroom once listening to Russel (one L) Howcroft talk about the theory of radiators and drains.
Radiators are people who radiate positivity, energy, and motivation. They tend to lift others' spirits, foster collaboration, and contribute to a healthy, encouraging environment. These people inspire others around them and often make the workplace or social environment more enjoyable. They’re seen as sources of energy, motivation, and morale for those they interact with.
Drains, on the other hand, are people who tend to drain energy, positivity, or motivation from others. They might bring negativity, complaints, or pessimism to interactions, which can lower morale and productivity. Their presence often makes it harder for others to stay motivated or inspired, as they can create a tense or discouraging atmosphere.
But we all think we’re the radiators, right?
It’s kinda like everyone thinking they’re a good driver. The stats show that either you or I are actually not as good behind the wheel as we think we might be. And for the record, that’s you not me. I’m an excellent driver (*coughs*).
Coldplay are radiators because they give a shit about you. They aren’t there for themselves. They want you to have the best night of your life at one of their gigs.
How often have you been to a concert and known that the artists heart wasn’t in it? They were just playing the set list to make some easy cash and then wanted to get the hell outta there.
With Coldplay everything from the staging, the lighting and audience involvement is high energy and designed to keep you on your feet. It’s a physical and emotional ride from start to finish.
The classic LinkedIn post at this point would be called: "‘Coldplay rocks: here’s 3 ways you can do it too!!!”.
Nah. I know you’re not (a) rockstars and (b) here for that kinda content.
I will give you this though.
Consider your next interaction with someone. The very next one you have right after reading this. Are you going to choose to be a radiator for that person or group of people?
I’m gonna bet you won’t be a drain, but being a radiator means actually emitting energy. You’re not on standby mode in the corner. You’re positively emitting the energy that lifts others spirits. You’re choosing to be positive on purpose.
The message you want to send them?
“Hey… In a sky full of stars, I think I saw you”.
Go ahead, make their day.
Have a great day. See you in the Morning.
Cheers,
Wade