We recently connected with Raul Ramirez and have shared our conversation below.
Raul, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
We live in a world that isn’t black and white. A hater or troll online could have a varitey of motivations. I have come to realize that none of the hate should be taken personally. It is not a true assessment of who I truly am. As long as I keep striving to be the best person that I can be, then I konw that none of what the haters say is true.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am a martial artist and physician. Over the years I have become an expert in classic and influential British wrestling style od Catch As Catch Can Wrestling, (Catch Wrestling). I’m currently a leading advocate and promoter of the the style. My organization is called Catch Wrestling Alliance.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I think attitude is very important. Many people talk about having imposter syndrome when starting out, but they oftern fail to realize that their idols also had to start at the bottom too! Just be honest with yourself and remeber that nobody has all the answers. We are all learning and striving to be the best we can, that is all we can truely do.
Empathy is another important quality that comtributes to success. Trying to see the world from another person’s perspective helps creat genuine connection between you and your students, customers, etc. If you can recognize and understand your student’s pain points, they will know that you are trustworthy.
The desire to keep learning will help you to stay relevant for years to come. Trends in martial arts come and go, but a good instructor will stay on top of it all. This will help you to answer questions from your students as they arise.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing that my parents did for me was to instill the desire to learn and the understanding that hard work pays off in the long run. My mom was a hugh advocate for getting a good education. She said that education is something that no one can take away from you. I was able to go to a great university, UCLA, and there I was able to learn about so many different subjects. I studied abroad in China and Indonesia. I learned how to speak Mandarin. All of these experiences shaped the person I am today.
I really would not be where I am today without the guidance I received from my parents.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.catchwrestlingalliance.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catchwrestlingalliance
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catchwrestlingalliance/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/CatchAlliance
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@Catchwrestlingalliance
Image Credits
Zamri Hassan
