Meet Derick Maduka

We were lucky to catch up with Derick Maduka recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Derick with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
From my Dad! I am a first generation American, my parent are originally from Nigeria. While growing up in Nigeria my Dad lost his father at the age of 13. He was the oldest of 6 siblings and was immediately thrust into adulthood. My Father knew if he wanted any hope of providing for his family he couldn’t do it in Nigeria. He knew his only opportunity to provide a better life for his family was for him to move to America. He spent years saving up to come to the US so he could go to school. While in school my Father worked multiple jobs to send money back home to take care of his family. My father managed to put himself through pharmacy school and send enough money back to put his siblings through school (one sibling was able to become a doctor and the other a lawyer.)

When I think about the obstacles my Dad had to overcome and the work ethic it took to defy the odds and change his families life it motivates me to work hard so the lives of those around me can change for the better.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am on a mission to motivate people to pursue their best version. I’ve felt what it’s like to do the opposite. It was 2 years ago I was living in Nebraska working a job I ABSOLUTELY HATED! I was homesick, depressed, drained; emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. What made matters worse is I lost complete control of my body. I had found myself in the worst shape I had ever been in. I had to make a decision I can stay here and continue to chase money or I can move back to my hometown and chase my dreams. I decided to bet on myself and focus only on things that bring me joy.

A year ago I moved back to Houston, Texas, committed to find something I love and something that can help a lot of people. This is what brought me to start a fitness social media page. Never had any social media prior to 2022, but I felt I had a lot to offer the world. I started posting and the rest was history.

One year later I had grown an account over 200,000 on Instagram and started an online coaching business taking on clients all over the world, helping individuals reach their best version.

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 the most important quality one can have is self-belief. Belief that no matter what the challenge or circumstance you face you CAN change your life and any situation.

The second is hard work/work ethic. If you want something in life you have to be willing to pay the price. Just always remember that the price of hard work may seem high, but it will never be higher than the bill of regret.

The last quality I’d say is the ability to persevere. Usually the most successful people I’ve ever met or looked up to were not the smartest or even the most talented they just had an unwavering ability to see things through. They understood that tough times don’t last and that any losses are only minor setbacks on the road to victory.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am currently working on launching a Youtube channel (inside scoop, you heard it first here!) I would love your support and feedback on how I can add move value to you guys! I am always excited to have people come along for the journey and support any of the platforms I am on! All social media (Youtube, IG, FB, TikTok) you can find me @derickmaduka.

Contact Info:

 

Image Credits
Alex Addison

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