Meet Dawn Gibson-thigpen

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dawn Gibson-thigpen a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Dawn, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?

From my grandmother and growing up without much. It didn’t matter what she went through, she always bounced back, and she taught us to do the same. Sometimes done with ease and others not so much. However, she always smiled no matter what.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

Hi! My name is Dawn Gibson-Thigpen. I am originally from Michigan and moved to South Florida about 10 years ago. I am an Automotive and Lifestyle influencer/journalist at Sassy Auto Chick. I have a B.A. degree from Northwood University and worked in corporate for about 15 years as a Software Analyst, before tapping into my creative side and creating Sassy Auto Chick, which shows my unique and colorful side through cars and fashion. I am currently heading into my ninth year working in the automotive industry and have partnered/worked with several brands such as Advance Auto Parts, WOCAN, Heels and Wheels, Rebel Rally, AutoNetwork Reports, Mazda, Nissan and many more. Among several things, I am passionate about networking, community and inspiring women of all backgrounds (and all ages) to reach for their dreams and follow their hearts. When I am not creating content, you can find me listening to my favorite music, traveling or test driving a cool car.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

1. Enthusiasm – I remember when I first entered the workforce, several of my peers and managers would say, “OMG! I love your enthusiasm!” At first it didn’t bother me, but over time I would hear it so much I started to get annoyed. I wanted them to tell me I was smart or brilliant. LOL! Then one day, there was a shift, and I started to appreciate the compliment. Enthusiasm has opened many doors for me throughout my career.

2. Being myself – For a long time I struggled with this. I tried being other people, but it never worked out. Over time I realized that I needed to just lend into who I am, and keep it moving.

3. Creativity – I feel like we are all creative in our own way. We just have to tap into what we love and are passionate about and creativity will appear naturally.

My advice is to be yourself, remain consistent, keep learning and lean into your strengths.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

I would have to say my stepmom (other mother). She is just ALWAYS there for me. Her and my father actually divorced when I was 11 years old, but that never stopped her from caring for me like I was her own. Whenever I doubt myself or let imposter system seep in, she is always there to combat the negativity, with affirmations, extremely solid advice, long talks, sending me books to read and home cooked meals when I need some motherly love. She is the best. And she never lets me forget that God put me here for a reason.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

NA – I took them with my tripod, or a friend and she is not looking for credit. Thanks 🙂

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