Monique Billings
Fashion-forward, athletic, cultured, and full of personality! All of these traits describe WNBA player, analyst, and author Monique Billings. Born on May 2, 1996, Monique isn't a stranger to being an underdog. Many underestimated her talent and counted her out, but she proved them all wrong when she was drafted by the Atlanta Dream in the 2018 WNBA Draft. Most are not afforded the opportunity to do something they love, which is something Monique recognizes. This is why she takes full advantage of the opportunities presented to her on and off the court. Amidst her 5 year professional career, Monique has discovered and explored her love for sports broadcasting, modeling, and self-improvement. Always looking to inspire and empower others, Monique aims to be a voice and light for women and girls trying to figure out everyday life just like she is. Learn more about our November Blush Crush below!
Current title and occupation?
I am a professional basketball player in the WNBA. I am also a sports broadcaster and television personality.
Was the WNBA always the end goal for you?
I had no idea that it would even be a possibility for me to play in the WNBA. When I was a young girl, I thought WNBA players were superheroes, and I had no idea that I could become one too!
What is the first thing you do every morning?
The first thing I do every single morning is pray! I thank God for the day ahead and ask that he bless and order my steps. I am very diligent and passionate about my morning routine in order to prime myself for the day ahead! I meditate, journal, and take a moment for myself!
Throughout your career, what inspired you and motivated you to find balance and prioritize yourself?
Feeling good and being as close to my highest self every day has motivated me to continue finding balance and prioritizing myself. I’m blessed to be able to wake up pretty much every single day and genuinely feel good in my mind, body, and spirit! I’m content and at peace with where I am in my life while at the same time striving for more. These good feelings motivate me to continue to find peace and balance.
What is one thing that you think would surprise most people about being a professional athlete?
Being a professional athlete has many lonely moments. The discipline it takes to become one of the best in the world means that you have to sometimes separate yourself from people, distractions, and limiting situations that could hold you back. There are many times when I am in the gym alone, and the spotlights aren’t on, there’s no camera crew or media, and no fans in the stands. It’s a very “you vs. you” lifestyle a lot of the time, and there are many internal battles that can make the journey feel lonely. Your mind can be your best tool or your biggest hurdle.
What has been your proudest career moment so far?
My proudest career moment was getting drafted and being able to share that experience in the draft room with my mom, dad, and sister. It was a special moment.
What advice would you give your 12-year-old self? And what is the #1 thing your 12-year-old self would be excited to find out about your life now?
I would tell my 12 year old self to find joy in the journey. When I was younger, I now realize how much I rushed through life at times, trying to make it to adulthood and what I thought was when real life started. I would encourage my younger self to enjoy the view on the way up the mountaintop, not just when you get to the top. My 12-year-old self would be excited to find out that she’s a world traveler and has friendships with amazing people all over the world!
Do you have a personal motto or power statement?
My personal mantra is to “be better than yesterday, but not as good as tomorrow.“
How have you incorporated self-care into your daily routine?
I incorporate self-care into my daily routine with various rituals that make me feel more in alignment and balance daily. From my morning and evening skin care routines to the delicious foods I eat, taking time for siesta rests, or even going on walks or on a picnic. I try to view everything in my life as an experience! I want to cultivate divine experiences every single day, and I find that this makes everyday life less mundane and gives me something to look forward to.
How do you practice gratitude during the month of November?
I am practicing gratitude in the month of November by trying some new extra-curricular activities and hobbies. I joined a hot yoga class, I started doing Pilates for the first time, I’m looking to potentially take a cooking class, and I plan on trying improv. I want to keep things fun and fresh in my life and continue challenging myself even when I am not in my basketball season.