Why we think Paula Abdul is a Type 3

• The dream to be on stage. In interviews, Abdul emphasizes her dream to be on stage from an early age. At the age of 22, she became the head choreographer for the Los Angeles Lakers cheerleading squad, the Laker Girls. She quickly gained recognition for her talent and went on to work with famous artists like Janet Jackson, George Michael, and Duran Duran. 

• Workaholism and a need to stay busy. Abdul has said she doesn’t do well doing nothing and loves staying busy. She has also shared openly about her tendency to work excessively, which led to burnout and health issues.

• Commercial orientation. In discussing her early days being involved with the Laker Girls, she not only frames the opportunity as a good one in of itself, but also an opportunity that will open up other doors. She calls it an avenue to pursue other avenues.

• Coping through work. In a 2009 interview with Ladies' Home Journal, Abdul revealed that she dealt with the emotional toll of her parents' divorce by focusing on her career and trying to achieve more.

• Source of self-worth. When she shares about her happiness in interviews, she consistently refers to her accomplishments and what she has done in describing why she is happy.  

• Demeanor. She is very smiley, warm, and easy-going in her interviews. As a judge on American Idol, she consistently tried to show kindness and support for the contestants, often providing constructive feedback with strong encouragement (which gives us confidence that she has a 2 Wing). 

• Adaptable and resilient in pursuit of success. Abdul has reinvented herself throughout her career, transitioning from dancer to singer to television personality. After a hiatus from the entertainment industry, Abdul returned to the limelight as a judge on American Idol.