La’Teshia Dockery
Using her own background in competitive dance, La’Teshia uses dance to teach women self- confidence and to stop striving to be “the best” and just be “their best.”
What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?
My biggest dream was always to dance professionally for a pro sports team. I accomplished that dream in 2008 when I made the Oklahoma City Thunder Dance Team. I was an OKC Thunder Girl for six years. It became my identity; what I based my value in. Don’t get me wrong, I loved being an ambassador for the organization and represented my city with so much pride. However, when I finally retired in 2014, I found myself extremely lost. I gained 40 pounds super quickly and lost all confidence and motivation. I wasn’t sure of who I was anymore or what I had to offer the world and it took years of soul searching and a lot of really tough conversation to help understand why I placed so much value in a job title and outward appearance. That’s why I’m so passionate about women’s empowerment and helping others establish self-confidence from the inside out. I’ve been there. I get it.
“I’m a recovering people pleaser and perfectionist. I’m so damn proud of the woman that I am today, because I’ve truly worked hard to become her.”
What makes you feel proud?
I’m a recovering people pleaser and perfectionist. I’m so damn proud of the woman that I am today, because I’ve truly worked hard to become her. I’ve finally accepted that not everyone will like me and I’ve grown to be okay with that. Living in my truest purpose and being able to help others do the same makes me so happy. Before we start our dance classes, I get chills every time I look around the room at women from all walks of life—ready to experience what the class has to offer. Proud is an understatement!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
What other people think of you is none of your business.
La’teshia is one of 100 women we have featured in the inaugural issue of Hundred Magazine. To learn more about her and the other 99 women, buy the issue.
