There is just something about telling other people "Good job" or "Nice run" that really makes me happy. I'm not sure why, but I feel like those little compliments make people happier. Maybe they don't, I'm not sure. But I know I always smile a little bigger when I hear someone tell me I did well.
Perhaps it's just a little ego boost, or it could really change someone's perspective of their run or dog. Congratulating people is just fun, if it wasn't people wouldn't do it. It isn't just the people who run really fast, or win all the time either...that's perhaps where the biggest problem is in the world of dog show etiquette. The big names, famous handlers, most accomplished owners always get told how amazing they are, but they aren't the only ones doing a great job out there. I don't honestly know where I am going with this, I think I'm trying to say that a lot of people aren't seeing the beauty in every run, every team, and every accomplishment...no matter how small. Maybe it's just because I've run dogs that are slow, tough to work with, and sometimes rather naughty, but it's making improvements with them that makes agility a true challenge. A combination of handling, training, and building a connection that lasts a life time. Every great dog has had an issue(s), that's what makes them great. Having to over come an problem, train through something, or having to reinvent how you handle creates dogs that are simply amazing because you put the work and time into them.
In conclusion, mainly because if I don't wrap it up here I'll go on for ages, I think giving compliments reminds people that they are doing a good job whether they Q or not. That one of the things everyone admires most is improvement, not winning. That the best dogs aren't always the ones who have it "made", but the ones that look better and better every day, that the best trainers and handlers are the ones willing to make mistakes in order to learn. So if you see a nice run say so, if you see someone making true progress tell them that you can see the difference. I'd like to think, and probably always will, that it really does make people prouder and happier even for just a moment.
In other news...
Whimzy had her USDAA Debut to day, so proud :)
I try to make a point to congratulate/cheer for Novice and Open teams in particular -- especially those who are newer teams. I remember what it was like when we were first starting and I felt pretty out of place at trials. Pointing out something really nice they did in their run or congratulating them when you see them carrying a Q or new title ribbon can really make someone's day and encourage them to keep going in the sport if they are feeling down on themselves that day.
ReplyDeleteI also try to talk to people that might be new to a venue where I trial all of the time. I've recently started to trial outside of my home area in a different organization and it sucks to not know anyone.
Very nice Grand Prix run! Looked like a very fun course.
Thank you! :)
Deleteand exactly, I think everyone really needs to keep in mind that we were all beginners once and it's tough no matter how good your first dog is.
Totally agree...love this post (although I love all of your posts)! Also, awesome debut with Whimzy, I'm not going to repeat how amazing I think she is. Can't wait to meet you both at NJAC, and see her in person!
ReplyDeleteThanks Mica!!! :)
DeleteFlorida is gonna be so much fun this year!! :)