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Image of Dominique Dawes

Dominique Dawes, Olympic Games Gold Medalist and uniquely ME! spokeswoman tells us what she thinks.
Ask Dominique Dawes

Question
Was it hard growing up in the public eye?



Advice
I had a love-hate relationship with the public. So many negative comments were made about my height, weight, voice, physique - you name it! One moment I felt supported and accepted, and the next I felt rejected and forgotten. In 1996, there was so much pressure on me to lead the Olympic team. In 2000, I was 'over-the-hill' in the eyes of the media. I felt snubbed - and it devastated me. But there were many more times when media and fan support helped me through hardships. I gained confidence, and qualified for my third Olympic Games.

For years, I sought the approval of others regarding my career choices, my personal life and even my appearance. If they didn't approve, I was crushed. There were many times that I considered plastic surgery because I was "too small", "child-like", "short" or "too muscular". Thank goodness I never did - because no matter how many changes I would have made, it wouldn't have been enough to satisfy all the critics.

Positive mentors, friends and family, helped me embrace my unique features and beauty. Now, as a confident adult, it's clear to me that worrying about what other people think and wanting their approval on everything isn't a positive and healthy way to live life. You can't please everyone. All I can do is love myself and be true to who I am.
—Dominique

 
DID YOU KNOW?

Dominique Dawes competed in the Olympic Games not once, but THREE times. Her team won the Gold medal for the US in 1996. Dominique won a bronze medal that same year in the floor competition, becoming the first African-American to win an individual gymnastics medal!

Dominique has worked with the Girl Scouts of the USA as spokesperson for the uniquely ME! THE GIRL SCOUT/DOVE SELF-ESTEEM PROGRAM, empowering girls to feel good about themselves and fulfill their dreams.

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