This talk centers on the transformative power of courage and commitment in overcoming fear and achieving personal growth. Opening with a vulnerable confession about the fear of swimming, the speaker uses the inspiring story of surfer Bethany Hamilton, who returned to the sport after losing her arm in a shark attack, to show that courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act in spite of it. Citing figures like Nelson Mandela and drawing on research about fear, regret, and resilience, the speaker encourages the audience to step outside their comfort zones, pursue their goals with clarity, practice self-compassion, seek supportive mentors, and learn from setbacks. The talk ends with a powerful challenge: take just one brave step toward your dreams or fears, because one step can change everything. Cyris Joseph Jones was born and raised in Prentiss, a small town in Central Mississippi. The ninth of eleven children, Cyris credits his parents, Madis and Willie Jones, for instilling in him the values of had an illustrious career spanning over three decades. He started with a major logistics company while attending college, advancing into management, and later spent 20 years in various upper management roles at a leading automotive manufacturing firm in Central Mississippi. After retiring from corporate America in 2023 to care for his mother, Cyris turned his focus to his true passion - motivating others, inspiring change, and helping people grow personally and professionally. Cyris has been happily married to his wife, Terri Jones, for 26 years. Together, they have two children, Christian and Torri, who continue to be a source of pride and inspiration in his life. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx