Jelena Dokic, a former world-ranked number four tennis player, has transformed her life from being an abuse survivor to becoming a beacon of resilience and empowerment. Her journey is encapsulated in her powerful TEDx speech in 2023, where she declared, “I refuse to be defined and defeated by my past…. I speak up and tell the truth… I never give up on myself.” Today, Dokic thrives as a sports commentator, author, and motivational speaker, inspiring many with her story.
In exploring her lifestyle, we uncover the health habits and mental strategies that keep her thriving, as well as her approach to handling social media negativity.
Balancing Physical and Mental Well-being
Dokic emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to health, stating, “Staying fit and healthy is a combination of mind, body, and soul.” Her routine includes a balanced mix of physical activity, nutritious eating, mental health care, and self-compassion. She enjoys trying new activities like Pilates and pickleball, and prioritizes self-care by taking breaks from her phone and ensuring she gets enough sleep despite her hectic schedule.
For Dokic, mental health is paramount. She practices daily gratitude and journaling, and cherishes her morning coffee time, dedicating at least 30 minutes to enjoy it peacefully. She believes fitness is a personal journey, encouraging others to find what makes them feel good, whether it’s a simple walk or running marathons. Experimentation is key to discovering what works best for each individual.
Staying Motivated
Motivation for Dokic comes from understanding the benefits of maintaining her health. She values even small efforts, like a 20-minute walk, as positive steps. She draws inspiration from podcasts and books focused on health and mental wellness, which keep her motivated and informed.
Handling Online Criticism
Facing online criticism, particularly about her weight loss, has been a challenge for Dokic. She acknowledges that everyone encounters criticism, but the anonymity of the internet can make it harsher. Dokic finds empowerment in speaking up for herself and others, embracing her identity, and using her voice to challenge damaging beauty standards. She advocates for kindness and continues to fight for what’s right, aiming to inspire hope and confidence in others.
Tips for a Health Turnaround
Dokic believes that health is not a one-size-fits-all concept. With a family history of diabetes and high blood pressure, she focuses on consuming nutritious ingredients to boost her energy and avoids eating late at night. She has cut down on junk food, opting instead for soups, healthy bowls, and salads, and ensures she stays hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
While she enjoys coffee, Dokic has incorporated matcha and gut health supplements into her routine, noticing benefits such as reduced bloating.
Building Resilience
Dokic stresses the importance of self-belief in building resilience. She notes that resilient individuals trust in their ability to overcome challenges and learn from setbacks. After dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma, she prioritizes her mental health. Professional help has been crucial in her journey, contributing significantly to her current mental well-being.
Looking Ahead
Dokic’s future plans include continuing her role as a tennis commentator, particularly at Grand Slam events like the Australian Open. She finds fulfillment in motivational speaking and intends to write more books following her bestsellers, “Unbreakable” and “Fearless.” Additionally, she dreams of hosting a travel show, combining her passion for travel with sharing unique experiences. Dokic is committed to pushing boundaries and stepping out of her comfort zone, continually seeking new opportunities for growth and inspiration.