Jennifer Dominguez
I just needed to connect with her. In a moment, and I’ll never forget it..I stopped crying, took a DEEP breath, smiled, and took on a fighter spirit. I realized thatmy “drama” was so small and that I had the power to create a new reality. Instead of feeling sorry for myself and self-sabotaging I knew I had to get up, and DO SOMETHING. So I went for a hike, prayed, and connected with nature. The world seemed so beautiful and I was excited to start my journey into being the best I could possibly be….In that day, I decided to break many unhealthy habits, separate myself from negativity, and focus on creating a healthier self image. Not only for myself, but to inspire other women around me..including my friends and family who were also in the “mending” part of their lives. On that hike, I discovered my new purpose- to help raise women up, when they are down; to energize and pump up their inner selves. I’m a true believer that with any “breakdown”, there is a “breakthrough”. But the only way to step out of your darkness is to committ and let go. Hold on to your vision and release the “drama”. And of course you have to want to change..if you are not open to change, then you will remain the same. That doesn’t make it wrong, but it’s a choice you’ve made for yourself.
A. The best magazine ever…Oxygen! I can’t wait to get my issue in the mail each month, and if you follow their fitness & nutrition advice you will get results..TRUST ME!
Q. What is one thing you’d like to accomplish in the next 2 years (fitness or other)?
A. I’d like to earn my IFBB Pro Card in Bikini and be featured in my favorite magazine, Oxygen (even if it’s a small little photo in the corner of the page, haha!)
Q. What is one of the biggest sacrifices you’ve made, and was it worth it?
A. Isolating myself from friends as I get closer to a competition. I believe with any goal you have to have discipline..and with discipline you have to sacrifice or give up something. When prepping for a show, I choose to not drink or eat “non-competition” food, so in order to stick to my goal I spend most of time at home or at the gym. It’s a temporary sacrifice that most of my friends understand, and I believe it’s worth it. And true friends support you in all you do!
Q. When staying healthy & fit can become so consuming, how do you balance the rest of your life, social, work, family, etc.?
A. I try to communicate with my loved ones every chance I get. It’s easy for people to judge you, but instead of spending my mental energy “wondering” what people are thinking, I try my best to express my feelings. People are entitled to their opinions, I understand that…but for me to keep balance and sanity, at the end of the day I just have to feel good knowing that I did my best to communicate and express. People can either take it, or leave it. Balance is about identifying your priorities and following through. There is always sacrifice to achieve balance in your life..and something or someone is alway affected. The key to harmony is COMMUNICATION.
A. Two of my favorite fitness models/competitors are Jamie Eason and Nita Marquez. I believe their inner strength shines through just as much as their physical bodies. There is an energy they exemplify that inspires me. Another inspiration are my parents. They’ve taught me the meaning of self-discipline, love, and sacrifice- all necessary tools in fitness.Q. For someone who is new to the fitness & health world, what piece of advice or information would you give them before they get started on this new venture?
A. I would tell them they need to find a reason that inspires them..an intention. For some people it’s to be a better parent, spouse, or employee. For others it’s to prove something to someone or themself. But it’s important to find out what your trigger is- what moves you? When you find out what that is…use it as FUEL. Rev up your engine..and get going!
Q. What is your favorite or most inspiring quote, saying, affirmation, or tagline?
A. “A journey of a thousand miles, begins with a single step” Lao-Tzu, Chinese Philosopher