Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Edir Terry. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Edir, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

My journey begins at the age of 10, during a pivotal moment that would shape the course of my life. It was then that my parents made the difficult decision to leave Venezuela and stay in the United States, seeking better opportunities amidst the challenges back home. At such a young age, I was faced with a life-altering choice: either return to Venezuela to live with relatives or stay in the U.S. and start a new chapter with my family. Despite barely understanding English, I chose to stay and rebuild with them—a decision that would define my path.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Crafting a Legacy: Transforming Lives Inside and Outside the Gym
In this chapter, let’s explore how a lifetime of diverse expertise and unwavering dedication to helping others can create a ripple effect of transformation. From martial arts to philanthropy, the ultimate goal is to empower others to become the best version of themselves—mind, body, and spirit.

A Multifaceted Journey of Growth

Imagine dedicating your life to mastering not just one discipline but many, all rooted in the art of self-improvement and service. That’s the path I’ve walked. Over the years, I’ve evolved into a:

Martial Arts Sensei: Guiding students through the intricacies of striking, takedowns, sweeps, and ground control.
Mixed Martial Arts Coach: Training athletes to thrive in competition and in life.
Creator of Custom Gear: Designing personalized mouthpieces, apparel, and business logos that reflect individuality and inspire pride.
Mentor and Cutman: Supporting athletes physically and emotionally, ensuring they’re ready for battle in and out of the ring.
Combat Sports Commentator and Analyst: Sharing insights to educate and inspire audiences.
Philanthropist and Investor: Giving back to the community, especially to those who face challenges I once endured.
Future Author: Writing a book to share these lessons with the world, aiming to inspire readers far beyond the gym walls.
The Philosophy Behind the Work

My passion goes beyond teaching martial arts techniques or building physical strength. My mission is to:

Shift Mindsets: Helping individuals break free from limiting beliefs.
Elevate Physical Health: Building stronger, healthier bodies to boost confidence and vitality.
Cultivate Spiritual Growth: Inspiring resilience, gratitude, and purpose.
Whether my students are athletes or everyday individuals, my aim is to create a holistic transformation. The true fight is not in the ring but in life—and my goal is to help others win that fight.

Stories of Impact

Some of my proudest moments have little to do with championships or trophies. It’s about what happens beyond the gym. One of my greatest achievements is helping my teenage students earn full scholarships, ensuring they have a future full of possibilities. Seeing them succeed in their careers makes me believe in the power of mentorship.

The real victory lies in shaping warriors—not just for combat but for life. I teach my students to overcome obstacles, face fears, and take control of their destiny. Every time I see someone wearing my brand’s apparel, it’s like hearing them say, “Thank you for believing in me.”

How to Build a Life of Impact

Here’s a step-by-step guide for anyone looking to create a meaningful impact:

Master Your Craft: Commit to lifelong learning in your areas of expertise. Excellence inspires others.
Serve Others: Identify how your skills can help people in their journeys. Start small but think big.
Create a Positive Mindset: Lead by example; positivity and resilience are contagious.
Be Compassionate: Understand where people are coming from. Your empathy can change lives.
Set Goals Together: Help others create actionable steps to achieve their dreams. Celebrate their wins.
Give Back: Use your success to support causes close to your heart. Your struggles can guide your philanthropy.
Never Quit: Teach the power of perseverance. Share your story to show that challenges are stepping stones, not roadblocks.
Looking Ahead

Philanthropy is a cornerstone of my journey. I’ve experienced firsthand what it’s like to lack access to resources. That’s why I’m committed to giving back, creating opportunities for those who face similar struggles. My ultimate dream is to expand my nonprofit work, ensuring that my legacy of service grows alongside my achievements.

Through all these efforts, I hope to inspire others to embrace growth, face life’s challenges with courage, and realize their full potential.

Final Thought: Your story, struggles, and successes are the most powerful tools you have to inspire change. Share them generously, live with purpose, and watch how the lives you touch transform into warriors—inside and outside the gym.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Never Back Down: A Warrior’s Journey Through Darkness

Life has a way of hitting you hard when you least expect it. For me, it was in January 2023. I found myself sitting in a sterile hospital room as a doctor delivered the kind of news that shakes you to your core: stage 4 colon cancer. A 30% survival rate. The words landed like a punch to the gut, the biggest blow I had ever received.

But here’s the thing about life: no matter how hard it hits, you have a choice. You can let it knock you down, or you can stand up, dust yourself off, and fight back. I’m not a quitter. I’ve never been one, and I’ll never be one. So when the doctor gave me that prognosis, I didn’t crumble. I didn’t break. I did what I’ve always done—I got ready for a fight.

I looked that doctor in the eye and said, “Watch me in one year. I’ll be close to 100% with my health.” Then I laughed—not out of denial, but out of defiance. It was the same laugh I’ve given opponents in the cage before a fight, the look that says, I’m ready for whatever you’ve got.

The Warrior Mindset
This battle wasn’t fought in a cage, but the principles were the same. In martial arts, you learn to face your fears, stay disciplined, and push past your limits. Life, like the cage, doesn’t care about your excuses. You have to show up, day in and day out, and give it everything you’ve got.

Chemotherapy became my new training camp. Each treatment was like a grueling round against a relentless opponent. But no matter how hard it got, I refused to give up. I reminded myself of the bigger picture: my family, my dreams, and the legacy I want to leave behind.

Step by Step: How to Fight Through the Darkness
Acknowledge the Pain
Life isn’t fair, and it’s okay to feel scared, angry, or devastated. But don’t let those emotions consume you. Face them head-on and accept that this is your fight.
Set Your Intentions
Just like preparing for a match, you need a strategy. My goal was clear: beat cancer. I visualized myself healthy, strong, and thriving. Your goal might be different, but whatever it is, make it real in your mind.
Find Your “Why”
When things get tough, your “why” will keep you going. For me, it was my family, my faith in God, and the belief that my journey could inspire others. Find what lights your fire and hold onto it.
Take It One Round at a Time
Don’t overwhelm yourself by thinking too far ahead. Focus on the next step, the next treatment, the next small victory. Each round brings you closer to the end.
Surround Yourself with Positivity
Your environment matters. Stay close to people who uplift you and distance yourself from negativity. This isn’t the time for doubt—only for faith and hope.
Celebrate Small Wins
Every milestone matters, whether it’s finishing a treatment, regaining your strength, or simply finding a reason to laugh. Acknowledge your progress and use it as fuel.
Refuse to Quit
This is non-negotiable. There will be moments when giving up feels easier. But you’re stronger than your circumstances. Keep fighting.
Laughing at Life
Now, almost a year later, I’m nearly done with my treatments. My body is healing, and my spirit is stronger than ever. I laugh at life, at the devil, at the very idea that something could break me. You can’t kill a warrior of God. My time will come when He says it’s time, but until then, I have too much to live for, too much to do.

A Message to You
To whoever is reading this, know that your battle isn’t over. No matter how dark it gets, there is light ahead. You may not see it now, but it’s there. The only thing you need to do is keep fighting. Don’t quit on yourself.

You’re stronger than you think, braver than you know, and capable of more than you imagine. Your story isn’t finished.

Remember, the fight isn’t over until you decide it is. So get back up, keep pushing, and never, ever back down.

You’re a warrior. Act like it.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

The Steps: How to Apply These Lessons
1. Start Investing Early

Why it matters: Every dollar you invest today has the potential to grow exponentially over time.
How to begin:
Open a basic investment account or contribute to a retirement fund.
Start small—allocate a portion of your income, even if it’s just $50 a month.
Focus on long-term growth, not quick returns.
2. Cut Back on Unnecessary Spending

Why it matters: Wasting money on things that don’t add value to your life can delay your financial independence.
How to begin:
Track your expenses for a month.
Identify areas where you can cut back (e.g., dining out, impulsive shopping).
Redirect those savings into investments or personal development.
3. Be Selective with Your Circle

Why it matters: The people you surround yourself with shape your mindset, habits, and potential.
How to begin:
Assess your current relationships. Are they uplifting or draining?
Prioritize spending time with those who align with your values and goals.
Distance yourself from negative influences without guilt.
4. Prioritize Your Career

Why it matters: Your career is a foundation for your success and the impact you can have on others.
How to begin:
Set clear, actionable goals for your career.
Dedicate consistent time to learning, skill-building, and networking.
Celebrate milestones to stay motivated.
5. Balance Helping Others with Self-Care

Why it matters: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Focusing on yourself doesn’t mean neglecting others; it means ensuring you’re strong enough to help them.
How to begin:
Schedule “me time” daily for self-reflection, growth, or relaxation.
Learn to say no when helping others conflicts with your priorities.
Support others in ways that don’t derail your own progress.
The Mindset: Compassion and Positivity
This journey isn’t about regretting the past but embracing it as a teacher. You are where you are because of the lessons life has taught you, and each mistake has shaped the strong, compassionate person you are today.

Key Affirmation:
“I am grateful for my past, for it has taught me to value my future. I choose to grow, to focus, and to uplift myself and others with balance and wisdom.”

The No-Quitting Attitude
There were times when it felt easier to give up—to stay in my comfort zone, surrounded by distractions and excuses. But life isn’t about ease; it’s about persistence.

When challenges arise, remind yourself why you started.
Celebrate small victories—they fuel your momentum.
Remember: success is a marathon, not a sprint.
The Lesson: A Message for Readers
If you’re reading this, know that it’s never too late to start. Learn from my story and apply these steps to your life. Begin investing in your future, whether that means money, time, or energy. Surround yourself with the right people, focus on your goals, and don’t be afraid to put yourself first when needed.

Life isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Keep moving forward, keep growing, and never, ever quit.

Closing Thought:
Your journey is yours to shape, and every choice you make today is a step toward the future you desire. Embrace the lessons, and let your story inspire others to do the same.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.edirterry.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belicomma
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/belicomma
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/edirterry
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/belicomma
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/belicomma

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