"He (Gus Lussi) found so many ways to inspire his students because he relished our love of skating and he loved skaters who appreciated other skaters. He demanded proper manners and that we show respect for the other skaters." - Dorothy Hamill, Figure Skating Olympic Gold Medalist

"Be known as the 'appreciative' one (and the one who gives credit to others) on your team. Find ways to say thank you and share credit." -- Maureen Moriarity

In the countdown to the 2014 Winter Olympics, one of the American television networks broadcasted a figure skating performance in tribute to American Skating legends who had won medals at previous Winter Olympic Games. More time was spent in tribute to Scott Hamilton, winner of the 1984 Gold, than to any other skater. Those who skated in Olympic Games after 1984 all spoke of how much Scott had inspired and influenced them not only as competitors but as professional entertainers. For decades Scott has been a commentator on network coverage of figure skating. One thing that stands out is Scott's appreciation of other skaters. Younger, less mature commentators point out the flaws of skaters in what seems to me to be an effort to demonstrate their own superiority. Scott points out a skater's strengths and expresses his excitement when they do well. If their performance is flawed, he still finds something positive about it to comment upon. I believe this appreciation of others is a key to his influence in the art of skating. I try to follow Scott's example. When I see another entertainer perform I try to show my appreciation by leading the rest of the audience in applauding them.

I was recently in a variety show with entertainers I did not know. I started off by being respectful of them when I entered the dressing room. I did not see most of the other acts perform, but when I did I commented on something they had done that I liked. That broke the ice with them and started many conversations. As they shared how they approach their art, I learned some things that I might be able to use to strengthen my own performances. I met a guitarist who has produced his own rock operas. He told me when he hires a musician he teaches them that the only way to do the really intense musical riffs is with relaxed concentration. If you try too hard or think about it, you can't do it. He said the only way to be relaxed is to be confidant in your preparation. I know that I do a better job when I am relaxed, and the more I do to prepare the more I am able to relax. It was a reminder to not become lazy in my preparation. I heard many other stories that had lessons I can apply to my own performances. I am glad that I started by showing respect to these strangers because as I got to know them I realized that they deserved that respect.

I am the Cubmaster of a Cub Scout Pack. That means that I plan and run the Pack Meetings. I am the one up front who gets all the attention. However, I am very aware that others contribute to the success of the meetings. I try to publicly acknowledge their contributions and to privately thank them. Cub Scout Packs are all led by volunteers and having to replace leaders due to burnout is a common problem. In our Pack I have found that most often people don't burnout, but because they know their efforts are appreciated they take on additional responsibilities. More people are asking what they can do to make a contribution to the meetings and other Pack events. I have learned that appreciation is a strong method of motivation.

While taking their bows, the best entertainers I know will direct attention to the technical crew as a method of thanking them for their contributions to the shows success.

I have heard that if you want to be a leader and influence, others being appreciated is not part of your job description. Your job is to appreciate others. Ironically that gains you more respect because people appreciate your support.

Do you appreciate other entertainers? How do you express your appreciation? If you are in a leadership position, how can you show appreciation to members of your group? What opportunities do you have to thank them? How can you share credit for the group's success?