First - a confession: I do watch American Idol. It is the only reality show I watch but still… I was encouraged to watch this show by several friends who know I love to sing and that I occasionally work with performing artists. So last year I took the plunge, with great skepticism, and became hooked.
There are many things to not like about the show such as the manipulation of emotions (ours and the contestants) and the endless commercials but it is still just plain fascinating. To see these young (mostly) talented performers sing in front of huge audiences and a panel of judges each week is truly a lesson in mental toughness.
Consider how you might function if, in front of millions of people, you were told you received the fewest votes from viewers and that judges did not deem you worthy of saving. That’s only part of it! Then, after you’ve been rejected, you have to sing the song (that got you booted out in the first place) once again in front of everyone! Come on…it’s amazing these kids can talk let alone sing!
So, I have been impressed with the poise and graciousness of these singers who are asked to perform under such mean conditions. They not only sing, they express their gratitude for the opportunity and thank everyone involved. That’s mental toughness, folks. Grace under pressure, for sure and a lesson for all of us.
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