We Can Learn a Thing or Two From American Idol Judges
I was never a fan of American Idol until the 2019 season. During the finals, I was mesmerized as I witnessed Katie Perry’s magnetic eyehold on the contestant, Alejandro. In her sequined dress in all the colors of the rainbow, adorned with big gold disc earnings nearly touching her shoulders, she said, “Homie, everyone was truly listening to you—you could hear a pin drop. It’s such a pleasure to be in the same lifetime as you. You bring original music and artistry.”
Then Lionel Richie leaning forward in his black sequined jacket added, “Love at first sound. Every now and then someone comes along who captivates your soul. From one song writer to another, happy to have you join the ranks.”
Finally the third judge, Luke Bryant, dressed in his usual casual and scruffy face said, “You play your music your way and when you’re on the cover of Rolling Stone, I’ll buy it.”
Did you notice as I did, something unusual about their feedback?
They were extremely encouraging. Their words to Alejandro and every other contestant said in essence, I see you. You have real talent. Win or lose you have a future in music. They justifiably supported each contestant’s faith in themselves and their hope to break into the music industry.
We Can Encourage Like American Idol Judges
All of us need encouragement, often on a daily basis. Whether we’re weathering a struggle or striving to achieve a goal, (as the contestants were), encouraging words can strengthen our belief in ourselves that we can get through this; we can reach our dream.
Here are some ways we can encourage others:
Focus on the person’s strengths, in essence you’re saying “You have what it takes.” (Katie described Alejandro’s music as original with great artistry, confirming he had what it takes for his career to take off.)
Remind your person of his past successes, in essence saying, “You’ve done it before, you have it in you to do it again.”
Share your person’s vision for the future. Encourage him to describe his dream in detail and let him know, “I can see you doing this.” (Luke Bryant expanded Alejandro’s vision imaging him on the cover of Rolling Stone.)
Your Takeaway
Why not be an encourager like the American Idol Judges? All of us are not that different than the contestants. Everyday we strive to work through challenges and achieve small and big dreams. Whether we’re trying to overcome stage fright, connect with an audience and sing our heart out, or attempting to resolve a conflict—everyone needs the support of encouraging words.
Why not begin encouraging today?
