Written By: Dana Skelton
Admiration- Something regarded as impressive or worthy of respect
Admiration- The root of the word admiration is admire; which means "to regard with wonder or approval”.
Admiration- A social emotion felt by observing people of competence, talent, or skill exceeding standards. ... Admiration motivates self-improvement through learning from role-models.
Admiration is an amazing thing. It does not matter who you are, where you live, or the amount of money that you make. It simply requires qualities that you actively work to acquire and/or you naturally possess. These qualities include being humble, authentic, resilient, and responsible just to name a few.
I have always loved this word, especially as someone that has benefited personally from watching and learning from others. It was highlighted in my mind, as we were all watching the Tokyo Olympics. Here are a few of my favorite moments:
The embrace at the end of the Women’s 200 Breaststroke in Finals. It didn’t matter what place they finished in or what country they were from, they were genuinely happy for Tatjana Schoenmaker and her new world record.
The Men’s High jump decided to share the gold medal. It is an incredible moment, if you didn’t see it, look it up!
Osaka Misugu (Women’s Skateboarding) fell on her final run and climbed out of the bowl straight into the arms of her friends and competitors. They lifted her up on their shoulders to celebrate her incredible effort.
How To Practice Admiration:
Be verbal- See something you find admirable… say it! Don't make something up to make them feel good. Sincerely compliment them and be specific.
Become a role model- When someone does something that you admire, sit for a second and clearly state what quality you admired. Take the time to implement this into your own life.
Be willing to take risks and be bold. Put yourself into situations that can showcase and give you a chance to practice admirable qualities.
Make a list. Write out what qualities you would like to be admired for. Make notes on your list of which qualities you are good at, which need to be improved, and which need to be practiced. The best way to achieve this goal is to have it clearly defined. A few examples of qualities people often admire in others:
Integrity
Confidence
Respect for others
Vulnerability (show you are not perfect)
Compassion for others
Great listener
Accountable/Reliable
Be present. You have to be mentally there in the moment, in order to notice the amazing things that happen around us daily.
Where there is great admiration there is always great character and success.
Dana is in her 14th season with the First Colony Swim Team. She is the lead coach for Age Group 1, where she gets the privilege to work with the 9- & 10-year-olds. She is also the Head Developmental Coach, working with the awesome coaches in the novice groups. She is an ASCA Level 3 certified coach. Dana started her coaching career with the East Bay Bat Rays in California. This introduction to USA Swimming kick-started her love of coaching, working with young swimmers, and learning what it means to be a great coach. Her coaching philosophy includes doing what is best for each child, parent, and coach in the sport. Focusing on what we can do as a collective whole to promote the sport, help everyone become better people, and have the children see the benefits of working hard. She uses an IM based training (with lots of kick) to ensure the young athletes have a solid base to keep developing through the sport. Dana has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Kinesiology from California State University, East Bay. She enjoys spending time with her husband and 3 daughters. Hobbies include being active, being crafty/creative, exploring the great state of Texas, and seeking out education to continue improving herself (on and off the deck).
Camps/Committees:
FCST rep for Gulf Masters
Texas All Star Camp coaching staff
Southern Zone Select Camp coaching staff
Meet Task Force for Gulf Swimming TPC
Committee Chair for the Texas Select Camp
USA Swimming Age Group Committee Member
Committee Chair for Gulf Club Development Committee