Dominique Dawes

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 6:55:09 PM)
Hi, I'm really happy to be here and I'm looking foward to answering your questions.

tinker_bell (Sep 16, 2003 6:55:36 PM)
How many medals have you won?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:55:36 PM)
I've won quite a few medals over 250 - over 4 world medals and I can't count how many world championship medals.

doubletrouble (Sep 16, 2003 6:56:16 PM)
Hi Dominique!!!

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:56:16 PM)
hello doubletrouble

RubberDucky (Sep 16, 2003 6:56:24 PM)
Hello!

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:56:24 PM)
hello rubber ducky

nmsfin (Sep 16, 2003 6:56:30 PM)
Hello from troop 1102 in Carmel, NY

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:56:30 PM)
hello girls

Jewel (Sep 16, 2003 6:56:39 PM)
Hello -- nice to meet you

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:56:39 PM)
So nice to meet all of you

Shannon (Sep 16, 2003 6:57:16 PM)
Were you ever a girl scout?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 6:57:16 PM)
I was never a girl scout but my daughter is a girl scout.

T-girl (Sep 16, 2003 6:57:17 PM)
What is self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:57:17 PM)
Self-esteem is the stuff inside you that makes you feel great about who you are. Self-esteem is not about the medals you've won, or what you look like, or the grade you get on your math test. Self-esteem comes from within.

T-girl (Sep 16, 2003 6:58:04 PM)
Can you have too much self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:58:04 PM)
No! Self-esteem is healthy!

livelifefree (Sep 16, 2003 6:58:39 PM)
Can we ask you questions about our selfesteem

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:58:39 PM)
oh, yes...no problem. ask away

doubletrouble (Sep 16, 2003 6:59:25 PM)
Please tell us something unique about yourself.

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:59:25 PM)
mmmm. um... i have a non- stop sense of humor. you get that from me after awhile.

Kita (Sep 16, 2003 6:59:41 PM)
When did you start gymnastics?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 6:59:41 PM)
i started when i was 6 years old. i was in the sport for 18 yrears

RubberDucky (Sep 16, 2003 7:00:18 PM)
How do you get over the times that you do not win the medal?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:00:18 PM)
well that's life. There'll be ups and down. My coach taught me to learn from my mistakes. It's a challenge put forward to strengthen my abilities.

Shannon (Sep 16, 2003 7:01:25 PM)
Do you still do gymnastics?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:01:25 PM)
i still do gymnastics in the comfort of my own home. I offer private lessons at Hills Gymnastics in Gaithersburg Maryland.

ali (Sep 16, 2003 7:02:07 PM)
how does sports help your self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:02:07 PM)
sports helps me develop my self-esteem. I was able to work with different girls and my coach as my role model, exposing my talents to the world

eskimo (Sep 16, 2003 7:02:39 PM)
what kept you motivated?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:02:40 PM)
the love for what i was doing...passion for gymnastics, competing and pleasing the crowd. Able to last 18 years in the sport because I loved what i was doing.

turtlegurl (Sep 16, 2003 7:03:10 PM)
have you ever felt like you wanted to quit?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:03:10 PM)
many times. but i would go to my coach and get advice... she gave advice never to quit and hard work does pay off.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:05:09 PM)
Many different things but finding things that you are good at, spending time with people who care about you, doing activities that make you feel succesfull and keeping a good sense of humor.

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:05:31 PM)
i believe accepting the challenges put forward to you. there's ups and downs. you need to accept the challenge. improving the gymnastics, it's living in the gym and improving and working hard.

cori (Sep 16, 2003 7:05:48 PM)
were you ever a girl scout?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:05:48 PM)
unfortunately i never had time to be a girl scout....my sister was

Shannon (Sep 16, 2003 7:06:17 PM)
How did you get involved with Girl SCouts?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:06:17 PM)
i got involved in the uniquely me girl scouts/ unilever program.

ali (Sep 16, 2003 7:06:41 PM)
Dr.M -does your daughter ever come to you with self-esteem stuff?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:06:41 PM)
Yes, she does talk to me about issues that are bothering her, my most important role is to listen to what she has to say.

SmartBelle (Sep 16, 2003 7:06:53 PM)
How did you first get involved in sports?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:06:53 PM)
i first got involved when about 5 years old...softball in a little league team in my home town. Gymnastics came when i was 6.

T-girl (Sep 16, 2003 7:07:14 PM)
How do I know if I have good self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:07:14 PM)
When you have high self-esteem, you feel good most of the time, and you have lots of energy. There may still be times when you feel bad, but it doesn't last long.

Jewel (Sep 16, 2003 7:07:37 PM)
dear Dr m can you tell me some things about you

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:07:37 PM)
I'm a developmental psycologist, two children, and have writen an advice column and two books for teens.

gymbug676 (Sep 16, 2003 7:07:45 PM)
how long did it take you to train for the olyimpics?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:07:45 PM)
i trained 9 years before my first olympic game in Barcelona Spain

psycho (Sep 16, 2003 7:08:17 PM)
do you enjoy being part of the girl scout program?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:08:17 PM)
i love being a part of the uniquely me... it gives me an opportunity to reach out to girls and teach them the importance of self-esteem.

JoJo (Sep 16, 2003 7:08:31 PM)
How did you know that gymnastics was the sport for you?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:08:31 PM)
i really didn't

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:08:52 PM)
the first time i tried out... i learned that being short and active was an asset to that sport.

T-girl (Sep 16, 2003 7:09:32 PM)
How do I know if I have bad self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:09:32 PM)
When you have low self-esteem, you don't feel good about yourself. You may have a negative view of yourself and the world. You may feel tired a lot, and it may be hard to set goals.

bamagal468 (Sep 16, 2003 7:09:37 PM)
how do i improve my self esteem?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:09:37 PM)
By sometimes changing your negative thoughts into postive oones, I'm a very strong beliver in positive self thought... say to yourself "you can do it" and you will start to belive it. Focus on the postive and not the negative.

scottjc78 (Sep 16, 2003 7:10:02 PM)
How can girls get involved with uniquely me?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:10:02 PM)
girls can go to the www.girlscouts.org to get information on the uniquely me girl scouts program.

SmartBelle (Sep 16, 2003 7:10:54 PM)
Dr. M - What makes you feel goo about being a doctor?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:10:54 PM)
The most improtant thing is that I can help poeple, girls come to me with advice, and I can help them feel better about themselves and build their self esteem.

turtlegurl (Sep 16, 2003 7:10:56 PM)
how many different countries have you been able to go to because of sports? which was your favorite place?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:10:56 PM)
because of gymnastics i've traveled across the world. London... I really enjoyed my time there...even though rainy...i enjoyed it.

MousieG (Sep 16, 2003 7:11:43 PM)
What exactly is uniquely me?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:11:44 PM)
the girl scout program to teach girls ages 8-14 to celebrate how unique they are. we educate on what self-esteem is and how to build their self-esteem

T-girl (Sep 16, 2003 7:11:59 PM)
What difference does it make if I have good self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:11:59 PM)
Having high self-esteem gives you more energy to set and accomplish your goals. It makes you less likely to make bad decisions about drugs and alcohol and other things. And it also puts a smile on your face and makes you feel great!

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:12:21 PM)
It also includes the uniquely me book produced by the girlscouts

adrienne (Sep 16, 2003 7:12:23 PM)
did gymnastics ever get in the way of your school

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:12:23 PM)
not at all. being an athlete it teaches you to budget your time...time for gym and time for education.

RubberDucky (Sep 16, 2003 7:13:05 PM)
Did the grades you got in school effect your self-esteem a lot?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:13:05 PM)
i was on the honor roll every year. it made me feel good that my hard work paid of. my self-esteem was not affected by outside events. It came from me...within.

eskimo (Sep 16, 2003 7:13:27 PM)
DR.M-how do you know if you have a good friend?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:13:27 PM)
Having a good friend should mean that it works for both of you. You care about them and they care about you, an equal relationship.

Angela (Sep 16, 2003 7:13:56 PM)
Do you actually set goals or just wait for things to happen ?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:13:56 PM)
successful athletes set goals. those who don't -- it's a surprise. I set goals each month as an athlete as well as for academics.

Kita (Sep 16, 2003 7:14:23 PM)
What books did you write?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:14:23 PM)
I wrote two books, the last one I wrote with my daughter, Getting to know the real you; fifty fun quizes just for girls.

SmartBelle (Sep 16, 2003 7:14:55 PM)
Dominique - other than gymnastics, what are some "little things" that make you feel good about yourself and life in general?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:14:55 PM)
it wasn't just gymnastics...it's my relationships around me...family members, coach, friends.

T-girl2 (Sep 16, 2003 7:15:32 PM)
What can I do to get better self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:15:33 PM)
Dig deep inside and celebrate yourself. Find out who you are as a person and what's good about you. I've made a list of self-esteem tips that have worked for me. You can find them at www.girlscouts.org.

cm244 (Sep 16, 2003 7:15:53 PM)
what does building self esteem mean?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:15:53 PM)
Self esteem means that you care about yourself, you are a worthy person, you expect other people to treat you with respect

bamagal468 (Sep 16, 2003 7:16:15 PM)
can self esteem ever go too far?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:16:15 PM)
i think you can never have too much self esteem but if you walk around arrogant it doesn't fall in the realm of self esteem

GoldAwardDani (Sep 16, 2003 7:17:49 PM)
I am currently pursuing my Gold Award, the highest award in Girl Scouting. Is there any way you can bring your prgram, Uniquely Me to my community?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:17:49 PM)
www.studio2d.org is a web site that the girl scouts run. You can find out more information there.

turtlegurl (Sep 16, 2003 7:18:03 PM)
what incourages you to help girls with building self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:18:03 PM)
self-esteem issues have always been important to me. I deal with them and my friends. I understand importance of having self-esteem in everything you do in life.

T-girl2 (Sep 16, 2003 7:18:28 PM)
How do you get self-esteem when there's nothing special about you? I'm average in every way.

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:18:28 PM)
I bet there are a lot of special things about you! You are the only person in the world who has the exact combination of interests, abilities and experiences that you do. That's worth celebrating! You are the only YOU out there, so be the best YOU you can be!

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:18:57 PM)
one special trick that we offer with uniquley me is to try new things...challenge yourself

Guest (Sep 16, 2003 7:19:14 PM)
Dr. M HOW can you actually build your self esteem?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:19:14 PM)
You can build your self esteem by looking at your attitude and look at life in a more positive way. Souround yourself with positive people and concentrate on that.

Rissa (Sep 16, 2003 7:19:38 PM)
Do you miss competing?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:19:38 PM)
yes...i definitely miss being around my fans and performing. working with the girl scouts is my way to perform again.

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:19:45 PM)
and reach out to my fans

gs290 (Sep 16, 2003 7:20:14 PM)
what was the biggest challenge in your career?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:20:14 PM)
the biggest challenge would have to be the many setbacks...injuries...pressures from the media and fans

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:20:16 PM)
Sorry girls, I made a typo, you can go to the website, www.studio2b.org to find out more about the girl scouts program.

jazzyjunior (Sep 16, 2003 7:22:19 PM)
have you always has high self esteem while a gymnist or have you struggled with it because you are in the public eye

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:22:19 PM)
self-esteem is something i've had to keep in check. at times high...at times low. It comes from within and i try not to let it affect my self-esteem.

T-girl2 (Sep 16, 2003 7:22:35 PM)
Sometimes I just don't feel like being positive. How can I change my attitude?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:22:35 PM)
Both positive and negative attitudes are contagious, so it's important to surround yourself with positive people. Another thing that helps me is to find the humor in everyday life. When you can see the funny side of things, you'll be less stressed and more likely to handle tough situations better.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:22:37 PM)
Since my parents didn't go to college, one of my biggest challenges was to find a role model who could help me as I became a psycologist.

GoldAwardDani (Sep 16, 2003 7:23:17 PM)
Are there special exercises you can suggest to build positive self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:23:17 PM)
any exercise that you haven't done...challenge yourself to try something new.... jump rope...anything new and different.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:23:30 PM)
i would suggest creating a positive image in your mind.

cm244 (Sep 16, 2003 7:23:58 PM)
do boys have self esteem issues too?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:23:58 PM)
Boys do have self esteem issues as well.

mom (Sep 16, 2003 7:24:13 PM)
Dominique, qhat have you been doing since the olympics

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:24:13 PM)
i've been involved with the uniquely me program... i enjoy motivational speaking, broadcasting and coaching gymnastics

turtlegurl (Sep 16, 2003 7:24:49 PM)
how do you check your self esteem and keep it?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:24:50 PM)
when you're proud of who you are.

psycho (Sep 16, 2003 7:25:46 PM)
does stress cause a big impact on self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:25:46 PM)
stress is defintely a factor for self-esteem and through uniquely me program we teach you how to combat those stress issues.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:26:16 PM)
When kids are dealing with self esteem issues, they will have a harder time dealing with stress.

T-girl2 (Sep 16, 2003 7:26:17 PM)
I think my friend has bad self-esteem. Can I do anything to help her?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:26:17 PM)
You're a thoughtful friend for asking this question. One way you might be able to help is by doing things together that build self-esteem. For example, challenge yourselves to try new things together. Try a ropes course, learn some new dance steps--anything to help you and your friend break outside of your comfort zone to try new things is a great way to grow.

Guest (Sep 16, 2003 7:26:55 PM)
What would you say to girls that want to achieve something so high as the olympics?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:26:55 PM)
i think taking one day at a time. it's good to set big goals. byt you need stepping stones to get you there. imagine that big day and then set goals along the way.

turtlegurl (Sep 16, 2003 7:27:27 PM)
how do you deal with stress

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:27:27 PM)
i spend time with the positive people in my life. My friends ... my family. They always help me.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:27:52 PM)
Keeping a sense of humor is really important, defining an outlet, reading, running.

GoldAwardDani (Sep 16, 2003 7:28:37 PM)
What can young girls do to feel empowered?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:28:37 PM)
pretty much get out and try different things. You feel empowered when you accomplish something that you didn't think you could do... Like submit an essay contest... get out there and try. You never know what you can accomplish until you try!

runnerchick (Sep 16, 2003 7:28:59 PM)
did u get nervous before u preformed

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:28:59 PM)
yes...i always had butterflies...since 8 to 23.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:29:47 PM)
When I was a kid I had a hard time speaking in public and now I love speaking to groups.

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:29:48 PM)
i had trouble too ...raising my hand or speaking in public...but that changed.

livelifefree (Sep 16, 2003 7:30:22 PM)
what should i do if i have alot of stress?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:30:22 PM)
take a deep breath and find a positive adult to confide in about the stressful situation.

jayme (Sep 16, 2003 7:30:55 PM)
what are some ways you deal with the butterflies?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:30:55 PM)
take a deep breath and realize that I have prepared and work hard for the competition or whatever i was doing

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:31:06 PM)
preparation is the key

turtlegurl (Sep 16, 2003 7:31:38 PM)
what do you do when you don't have anybody supporting you for something that you love doing?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:31:38 PM)
try to find the passion from within...i know hard ...but if you continue to believe with effort...you can achieve.

SJF (Sep 16, 2003 7:32:04 PM)
Did you enjoy school?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:32:04 PM)
yes. I love school. At times I felt I didn't fit in...but all in all...education is very important

Lele (Sep 16, 2003 7:32:20 PM)
My friend thinks she's fat, but she's not. Is that a sign of bad self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:32:20 PM)
Having a healthy body image is an important part of good self-esteem. Exercising, eating well, and getting plenty of sleep will help you move toward a healthier you--inside and out!

Tory (Sep 16, 2003 7:33:03 PM)
what was your favorite class?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:33:03 PM)
i enjoyed math and science the most.

SmartBelle (Sep 16, 2003 7:33:18 PM)
I think that one of my friends is making bad choices with the "popular" kids and I think becuase of low esteem.. how can i help her make better choices?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:33:18 PM)
You can talk to your friend, and make some suggestions. Remeber that your friend has to make some of those decisions by herself.

Lele (Sep 16, 2003 7:33:36 PM)
Dominique, why do you want to talk to girls about self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:33:36 PM)
Everyone deals with self-esteem issues, but so many girls feel like they are the only ones! So I was really excited when Girl Scouts and Unilever came to me about being part of the uniquely ME! program to help deal with today's self-esteem issues. I've been talking with girls like you around the country about how to celebrate yourself, surround yourself with positive people, and push yourself to be all you can be.

psycho (Sep 16, 2003 7:34:43 PM)
have you ever not followed something you've wanted to do because you were afraid what other people think?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:34:43 PM)
yes... things that other people would say on the outside would affect me. But I knew I could do it and chose to just do it.

KatieKittie (Sep 16, 2003 7:35:32 PM)
What do you love most about your life?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:35:32 PM)
i have an opportunity to make a difference in others lives.

Lele (Sep 16, 2003 7:35:40 PM)
Dominique, have you ever had bad self-esteem?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:35:41 PM)
I've definitely had experiences with low self-esteem. For example, I was always called a tomboy in school. I had a squeaky little voice, and I was also called "shorty." I didn't want to raise my hand and ask questions, because I thought people were going to hear that squeaky little voice or see me stand up and wonder if I was still sitting down. I constantly worried about what other students were going to say and think.

livelifefree (Sep 16, 2003 7:35:49 PM)
I have been having troubles trying to figure out who really is my friend and who isn't. Can you give me some advice?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:35:50 PM)
The most important thing to do is when you're with this person, do they make me feel good or do they make me feel uncomfortable or bad.

OLIVIACHIC (Sep 16, 2003 7:36:04 PM)
When you were in the middle of a competition, did your self-esteem keep you from doing the rest of the competition? Did you ever stop competing?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:36:04 PM)
never ....once I START I am always committed to my goals.

NATALIE (Sep 16, 2003 7:36:48 PM)
I don't like middle school, all the girls seem to do is argue and fight, how do you stay positive in the middle of that?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:36:48 PM)
i had to do with that situation and what I focused on were the positive things I could control... like gymnastics. Don't let negative things get to you.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:37:04 PM)
Spend time with people who are your true friends

Rissa (Sep 16, 2003 7:37:31 PM)
I'm very shy. How can I change that?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:37:31 PM)
start to slowly bit by bit...speak up. Try it out. I would speak up and realize that I had a strong voice.

OLIVIACHIC (Sep 16, 2003 7:38:16 PM)
Are confidence and self-esteem the same thing?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:38:16 PM)
they definitely go hand in hand. You can be confident in doing something and not have the self esteem.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:38:40 PM)
When you act in a confident way, you begin to believe that you can do things and that builds your self esteem

puppygirl (Sep 16, 2003 7:39:10 PM)
What's some advice for someone who enjoys sports, but is not very good at it?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:39:10 PM)
to keep at it. you don't have to be great at what you are doing...just be happy that you are out there. Don't worry about winning or losing. It's about playing the game.

Lele (Sep 16, 2003 7:39:52 PM)
Dominique, what do you do when you're feeling bad about yourself?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:39:52 PM)
I use the same tips and techniques that I share with girls like you. For example, I concentrate on having a positive mental attitude. And it always helps to find the humor in everyday life.

Huskypitt (Sep 16, 2003 7:40:26 PM)
How do you stay focused and not let cheering or nervousness hurt your ability?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:40:26 PM)
i stay focused by keeping my vision within my grasp.

jazzyjunior (Sep 16, 2003 7:40:30 PM)
Dr M what do you do when someone wants to be your friend one minute and not the next. I really do like this girl she just likes to argue with me

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:40:30 PM)
Friendships have their ups and downs. If they are good friend, it's worth it to work at it in order to keep it going. But if they are really treating you badley, then it's not worth it in your life and you should probably end it.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:41:07 PM)
it's important to relize that you aren't the only one, many kids feel nervous when they are trying something new, that's natural

Biscuit (Sep 16, 2003 7:41:08 PM)
Where did the strength to stand by your commitments come from?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:41:08 PM)
by having a positive role model that taught me right from wrong and going in the right direction.

Guest (Sep 16, 2003 7:41:28 PM)
If i wanted to be friends with someone, but didn't really know how, what are some conversation starters I could use?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:41:29 PM)
hey, how you doing....it's as simple as that.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:41:56 PM)
You can mention somthing about a teacher or a class, something that you have in common.

bamagal468 (Sep 16, 2003 7:42:10 PM)
what does it mean to be outspoken? it that good or bad?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:42:10 PM)
depends on what outspoken about. if positive and not hurting anyone's feelings than it's no problem to speak your mind.

puppygirl (Sep 16, 2003 7:42:57 PM)
How can I be confident, but not conceited?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:42:57 PM)
by focusing on impressing yourself and not worrying about impressing others.

Guest (Sep 16, 2003 7:43:28 PM)
I'm very low on self confidence when in front of large crowds . What should I do?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:43:29 PM)
It's much easier to start doing things in a small group and then build yourself up to the large group.

psycho (Sep 16, 2003 7:43:45 PM)
have people ever mocked you because you were a part of a certain group? if so, what did you do?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:43:46 PM)
certainly...but I saw it as a way to keep on being who I was ... if people criticizing it's because they might be insecure themselves.

SomeSadGirl (Sep 16, 2003 7:44:42 PM)
how can i become more confident? im never brave enough to talk to a guy i like or to even make a new friends and i HATE it... i dont want to miss out on someones friendship because im shy.

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:44:42 PM)
sit down and think about some unique qualities about you...then think about that... remember other people are as nervous as you ...so step up to the challenge.

Senior (Sep 16, 2003 7:45:25 PM)
are you afraid sometimes

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:45:25 PM)
there are times when I am nervous...but not really afraid ... i always know that I am well-prepared

Tory (Sep 16, 2003 7:45:29 PM)
Dr. M...How difficult was it to finish all of your schooling? Was there a time you wanted to quit?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:45:29 PM)
It was very difficult to geT MY PhD, it took many ears of schooling and that motivated me to keep going on a get my degree.

Guest (Sep 16, 2003 7:46:04 PM)
dominique do you like what you do and what made you pick this?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:46:05 PM)
I love what I do. I wouldn't be spending my time and effort on something I didn't like. Self-esteem has always been something important to me...since a little girl

SJF (Sep 16, 2003 7:46:46 PM)
Who was your role model?\

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:46:46 PM)
my coach and family members who were positive as to what I was accomplishing in life.

Norbert625 (Sep 16, 2003 7:47:09 PM)
what do you do when you are a fraid to ask something?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:47:10 PM)
i think about what the consequences would be if I didn't ask

1234 (Sep 16, 2003 7:47:13 PM)
Dr. M, what should you do if a friend gives you the silent treatment and you don't know what you did?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:47:13 PM)
You should start a conversation with her and ask very directly why you did. If you don't get an answer there's nothing else you can do about it.

Lele (Sep 16, 2003 7:47:20 PM)
Dominique, did you ever just want to quit gymnastics? How did you keep going?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:47:21 PM)
Whenever you set a big goal in life, there will always be a lot of obstacles, and I faced some that could have made me feel that way if I let them. I had to learn how to overcome injuries, go to the gym every day, and at the same time have a positive attitude on workouts and competition. One thing I did was make up little sayings like "D3," which stands for determination, dedication, and desire. I'd spray that with shaving cream on a mirror whenever I had tough challenges ahead, and it gave me the inner strength to dig deep inside.

Huskypitt (Sep 16, 2003 7:47:59 PM)
Do you ever have down days?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:47:59 PM)
I'm only human...I learn to make bad days good days by thinking of the many blessings that I have suchs as friends and family.

LatinaTroop (Sep 16, 2003 7:48:53 PM)
How can I deal with peer pressure?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:48:53 PM)
focus on what's important to you and not what's important to other people.

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:49:01 PM)
don't follow ....lead

puppygirl (Sep 16, 2003 7:49:11 PM)
what would you if someone starts bullying you?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:49:11 PM)
If they are doing something that's physically dangerous then get an adult involved right away. If they are teasing you, you can avoid them or get some of your friends involved. Remember, it's okay to get help when someone is bullying you.

TheeAngelEMAC (Sep 16, 2003 7:49:54 PM)
My cousin was a part of my Studio2B group for a while and we talked and discovered we had a lot in common and we would try to be friends, but then she started lying to people and made everybody upset and I think she is doing this because she has low self-esteem and is trying to make her seem better, how can I make her stop?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:49:54 PM)
communicate to her of how it made you feel and how it hurt you. hopefully she'll then open up to you.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:50:27 PM)
Sometimes kids don't tell the truth so they can appear better in some way

SmartBelle (Sep 16, 2003 7:50:41 PM)
Who is your biggest supporter?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:50:41 PM)
my coach...positive family members...friends... the biggest one over the higher powers...is myself. If you don't believe in yourself...now one will support you.

Guest (Sep 16, 2003 7:52:02 PM)
when someone is mean to me how do i fell better about myself?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:52:02 PM)
It's important to recognize where the mean comment is coming from. Remeber who you really are and what you think about yourself is what matters.

puppygirl (Sep 16, 2003 7:52:15 PM)
My teacher made me scared to even ask her a qustion/ what should I do?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:52:15 PM)
i've gone through that when in elementary school. maybe you could sepak to her after class if comfortable or try talking to a school counselor.

angie (Sep 16, 2003 7:52:44 PM)
who inspired you

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:52:44 PM)
came from positive adults in my life...they didn't just tell me what to do ...but showed me how to do it.

angie (Sep 16, 2003 7:53:18 PM)
do you ever get annoyed by all the attention

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:53:18 PM)
not really...i guess i'm used to it... there are times when I need my peace and quiet and I need to be alone with my puppy dog.

sportygirl (Sep 16, 2003 7:54:10 PM)
did you ever doubt yourself?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:54:10 PM)
yes...there are times when I don't have the most confidence...I get advice from folks close to me to get advice.

Guest (Sep 16, 2003 7:54:11 PM)
Dr M... what do you do when you play a lightherted joke on a friend, and they take it way more seriously than you planned.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:54:11 PM)
That calls for a heart to heart conversation so you can explain why you did what you did. It's important to listen to your friend so you understand why you hurt their feelings.

actor03 (Sep 16, 2003 7:55:18 PM)
Do you get nervous or shy when your in front of people?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:55:18 PM)
Not usaully but I used to.

sharon (Sep 16, 2003 7:56:29 PM)
Troop 4209 of Maywood, Broadview, Bellwood and Forest Park Illinois would like to know what you think could be a good service project?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:56:30 PM)
pick something to help beautify the community...planting trees, planting a special garden...painting a building...something to drive by and see and encourage others to do the same.

Guest (Sep 16, 2003 7:56:58 PM)
I like to be involved in sports, but I feel like I can never do well, I am not very competitive. How can I overcome that?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:56:58 PM)
you don't have to be competitive. you just have to go and do it...that's the challenge

Lele (Sep 16, 2003 7:57:17 PM)
How can you get self-esteem when you're overweight?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:57:17 PM)
What is most important is how you feel about yourself. If being overweight bothers you, and your doctor agrees that your weight is a health problem, you also can work with her or him to develop a plan to lose weight.

SmartBelle (Sep 16, 2003 7:57:47 PM)
How do I know I'm making good decisions?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:57:47 PM)
if you're listening to the positive adults like parents and teachers...as well as if what you are doing makes you feel good about yourself.

Guest (Sep 16, 2003 7:58:16 PM)
were there any periods in your life where you wanted to do something different?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:58:16 PM)
yes. there are times... but I'm happy with how everything turned out. I do believe gymnastics is the reason why I was here.

beautyqueen1 (Sep 16, 2003 7:59:04 PM)
what is the hardest thing you had to do to reach your dreams?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:59:04 PM)
Continue to commit. The goal was not going to be completed today or the day after...but after many years of committment.

elmo (Sep 16, 2003 7:59:35 PM)
what helps you keep a positive attitude?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 7:59:36 PM)
knowing that what I say or what I do can really change someone's life for the better.

lauren668 (Sep 16, 2003 7:59:42 PM)
how can girls stand up to peer pressure when they are considered not to be in the in crowd?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 7:59:42 PM)
They need to listen to their own voice, listen to how they feel. When you are true to yourself that presure won't be as important.

Sue (Sep 16, 2003 8:00:07 PM)
Dominique - how do you gain confidence when you are shy?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:00:08 PM)
you gotta get out there...raise your hand...speak up. If you don't try ...it's not going to change. Get out there!

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 8:00:26 PM)
I talk to myself and I said, this is not who I want be, so I started doing some small things and then started taking on bigger task.

SoccerChick (Sep 16, 2003 8:00:47 PM)
How can you get your self-esteem when your handicap?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:00:47 PM)
look toward other kids and adults who have disabilities and how they were able to overcome them to learn from them.

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 8:01:10 PM)
Every person has some abilities and some disabilities, focus on what you can do instead of what you can't do

angie (Sep 16, 2003 8:01:21 PM)
are you proud of yourself

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:01:21 PM)
yes. i'm proud of myself...not because of accomplishments in gymnastics but other accomplishments outside of the gymnastics arena.

elmo (Sep 16, 2003 8:02:01 PM)
what are you afraid of and how do you overcome it?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:02:01 PM)
really not afraid of many things in this world.. i get nervous... I guess there's a fear factor of trying new things...but then I think what would happen if I didn't try it.

rayman007 (Sep 16, 2003 8:02:27 PM)
how old where you when u started?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:02:27 PM)
I was 6 years started... and 23 when I left the arena

Dancingfool3 (Sep 16, 2003 8:03:03 PM)
what do you do do when some friends make fun of your best friend?

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 8:03:03 PM)
It's important to support your friends, it can be hard to respond to that, but it's also hard to stand there and do nothing.

Sue (Sep 16, 2003 8:03:16 PM)
When you started gymnastics, were you nervous? how did you gain self-esteem if other gymnasts performed better?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:03:16 PM)
i wasn't nervous...everything was new and a challenge. I gained self-esteem by working hard and staying in the gym.

Lele (Sep 16, 2003 8:03:49 PM)
Dominique, what are you doing now that you're not a gymnast?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:03:49 PM)
I'm building a career in broadcasting. And I'm having a great time talking to girls like you about the importance of healthy self-esteem!

T-girl (Sep 16, 2003 8:04:11 PM)
It's easy to feel good about yourself when you're an Olympic champion. What about the rest of us?

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:04:11 PM)
Everyone deals with self-esteem issues, even top athletes. It's so important to know that you're not alone with this issue. The good news is that self-esteem comes from within, so it's in your power to have great self-esteem!

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:04:25 PM)
Thanks girls so much for coming!

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:04:34 PM)
Dr. M! and I are so happy that you stopped by!

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:04:42 PM)
Keep positive

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:05:09 PM)
We are closing the chatroom now. I have to say good-bye.

Dominique Dawes (Sep 16, 2003 8:05:25 PM)
Bye girls. Keep positive!

Dr. M! (Sep 16, 2003 8:05:57 PM)
We really appreciate all you coming out tonight and thank you for all the wonderful questions.

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