CSM Game-Changer Issue with Cristiano Ronaldo 2019 BODY ISSUE - Lauren Flodquist | Page 294

CSM: This is your feature debut to be on Center Stage Magazine, what is the experience like when you are included in our roster for 2019’s Summer Body is- sue RICK: Getting the news about being featured was incredibly exciting! It feels amazing knowing I’ve worked hard to achieve a goal, and to have the op- portunity to share my journey with others! CSM: What do you think makes Center Stage Maga- zine stand-out or makes it unique in other publica- tions around the globe? RICK: I think CSM uses its platform to motivate, inspire and empower all of its readers regardless of their gender, age, background or fitness levels. CSM: What are the duties and responsibilities that entail to your current profession or career? RICK: I work for a large tech company. Our main goal is to help individuals use technology to unleash their creativity and improve their day to day lives. I pride myself in working for a company that truly cares about its customers and their success. CSM: This year’s bimonthly edition is about going for game-changing results in careers and individual- ity and inspiring people (being a beacon of inspira- tion); describe how you defied your limits and exude confidence in your career and what did you do to push those boundaries. RICK: I believe that If you work hard, people will take notice. A strong work ethic is crucial to advance- ment and success. It’s also important to set realistic goals, and to remain focused. CSM: How do you handle the situation if people get intimidated by you and your work? RICK: I tell them I’m just a regular guy! Anyone with the will, drive, and focus can achieve their goals! CSM: What game-changing results do you look for- ward this year? RICK: I would like to gain a little more muscle while remaining lean. It’s a different approach many other people in fitness take, but I’ve always preferred to be shredded rather than bulky without much definition. CSM: Describe the person who made an impact in your life and how that is significant. RICK: Jaco De Bruyn has been a great source of mo- tivation and inspiration, not only because of what he has achieved in the fitness world, but because he has remained humble and engaging with his audience. He is the epitome of a role model, in my opinion. CSM: How do you set goals for yourself? RICK: I think it’s important to set smaller, realistic goals. Reward yourself for achieving them, and keep raising the bar! Obstacles will always be there, but how you react to them will have a great impact on the path you’ll follow. CSM: What exactly motivates you to be a game- changer and how do you do it? RICK: I was a very skinny kid growing up, and I was bullied a lot. That lit a fire in me which ignited a de- sire to improve my physique. I have also always had great admiration for fitness models and bodybuild- ers. It’s definitely not an easy path, but it’s extremely satisfying and rewarding to see results after months or years of hard work. CSM: Describe the true nature of being sexy and an eye-catching individual. RICK: Being confident in being yourself! Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and there’s no better feel- ing than being appreciated for being you. CSM: The industry you are in right now is very fast- paced, full of competition and full of talent and un- avoidable politics at times. What makes you stand out and how do you keep up with talented people around you? RICK: I believe we all share the same passion. I don’t see it as competition or rivalry. I see it as a way to keep each other inspired and motivated. I have been very lucky to have a very supportive group of friends and followers. I’ve also been lucky to be able to have people I look up to give me advice and guidance. It’s all about supporting each other! CSM: Work-wise, what does it take to be successful in this type of profession? RICK: Worth ethic, focus, and the desire to become a better version or yourself. CSM: What is your great advice to those who will venture this kind of work? RICK: Be patient. Results take time. CSM: Cast a magic spell and wave your magic wand, where do you see yourself ten years from now? RICK: Traveling the world! Material things come and go, but experiences and the resulting memories will stay with you forever.