The power of yes for unlocking your full potential | Maria Maier | TEDxClinton Central School
What if one powerful “YES” could change the entire trajectory of your life?
In this motivating talk, Maria Maier explores how unlocking your full potential might start with something surprisingly simple: embracing the power of YES.
Through personal stories of resilience and transformation—including the pivotal moment when one “YES” altered her life forever—Maria shows us how belief, action, and success are all rooted in the psychology of affirmation. Drawing from research by Dr. Robert Cialdini and the neuroscience of commitment and mindset, she reveals how small daily "YESes" build unstoppable momentum.
From the grit of entrepreneurs like Jamie Kern Lima to the science behind micro-decisions, Maria teaches us that saying “YES” isn’t just a choice—it’s a strategy. One that fuels growth, builds confidence, and forges a future defined by possibility, not limitation.
“The world isn’t changed by people who wait for permission,” she reminds us. “It’s changed by those who believe, achieve, and succeed—one YES at a time.”
Maria Maier embodies resilience and determination. Born in Russia, she learned the value of hard work from her parents during challenging times. Starting her career in city government, Maria led housing initiatives that helped families afford homes. After immigrating to the U.S., she spent over a decade in education before founding her
company, Step Up & Thrive.
Now a dynamic coach and trainer, Maria equips leaders, teams, and organizations to grow and succeed. She has trained with world-renowned experts like leadership guru John Maxwell, business coach Paul Martinelli, and influence pioneer Dr. Robert Cialdini. Maria’s
passion lies in helping people believe in themselves, set bold goals, and take action. As President of the CNY BizTalkers Club and a leader in the Mohawk Valley Businesswomen Network, Maria champions the idea that leadership is a mindset, not a title. 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
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