What We Can Learn From American Idol

I keep telling people about my Google Test of character. The Google Test is when people can type in your name and Google will spit out the list of choices that you have made. Would they be good choices or would they be poor choices? Would they enhance or hurt your reputation? Would they make your parents proud?

Well, in Antonella Barba’s case, the last female contestant to leave American Idol, the choices of having risque photos of her on the internet sure sent her off in a cloud of yuck. And these weren’t photos taken without her knowledge. They were posed photos. She knew what she was doing.

Now “Girls Gone Wild,” the company that had made millions selling raunchy videos has offered Barba $250,000 to appear as a spokesmodel. (Make your parents proud?) And Sugar Adult DVD’s raised another $250,000, for a cover model offer of $500,000. (Enhance or hurt your reputation?)

Here’s what Barba said when confronted with the photos: “That is not the way I want to present myself. I keep getting told no publicity is bad publicity. Yes, it’s true my name is more well-known because of it. But I’m not known for the things I want to be known for. I’d rather present myself in a more classy way.”

Well guess what sweet pea, unfortunately, we are known for our last worst act. And your last worst act is a doosy! You say you aren’t known for the things you want to be known for–yes you are. And it doesn’t fit within the definition of classy.

What a great opportunity for all of us to teach to others the value of making good choices “even” when you think others might not be watching…

Comments

[Ann Burnworth]

Dr. Mike: EXCELLENT blog! We've had a very recent situation where youth (AP student) actually forged a letter stating he had performed his required community service with our organization. Now I've certainly done things I wish I hadn't through poor choices, but young people have no idea what they'll go down in history as being known for when they start out as good people to begin with! We're sure you will, but please also tell our youth about facebook and myspace being used in perpetuity by decision-makers when you speak to our campers this summer! THANK YOU!! Ann "GOOO GATORS" B. - Evansville