Aly Raisman recently wrote a piece for Cosmopolitan titled "14 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Became an Olympic Athlete." Raisman addresses a list of things she learned looking back at the Olympics and her advice and explanations shed light on the struggles and processes of being an top elite gymnast in the world spotlight. Read the entire article here.

Some of the areas Raisman discusses include things all gymnasts can relate to - balancing school and gymnastics, trying to have a typical social life, and even dating while being an elite gymnast. But she also addresses topics that any teenager could relate to such as body image struggles and following your gut instincts. 

As a role model, Raisman has learned to careful about the message she sends, even on social media. Raisman recalled an incident where her message was misinterpreted, "I once posted something that said "strong is the new skinny" to social media, which some girls found offensive to girls who are skinny, so you have to be careful on both sides of it."

Raisman also sheds light on some topics that most people don't have to deal with such as deciding whether or not to turn professional. Raisman ended up turning professional instead of going to her top school for gymnastics- the University of Florida. This opened up many opportunities for her including particpating on Dancing With the Stars.

Turning professional also gave Raisman an opportunity to gain sponsorships and not just with anyone - but with sponsors that she really believed in. 

"I was in a position to work with sponsors that I believe in, that are healthy and have a good message behind them." Raisman wrote, "It can sometimes be easy just to accept any kind of money and be excited, but I think it's important to look at the message you're sending."

This insightful article was not Raisman's first- she recently wrote an essay for TIME on the importance of the team that was posted shortly after the FIG rule changes on the Olympic team size. Raisman has been outspoken about her beliefs and in doing so, has gained a lot of respect and an even larger following.


Related:
Aly Raisman on the Importance of Team