Understanding the Five Stages of Change | Life Coaching

January 2026

Laura Ramirez, LLC | Life Coaching | Reiki

Life Coaching offers support and clarity during times of transition and change

The Five Stages of Change in Coaching

Creating change tends to follow some very predictable paths. None of us move straight from idea to action. Instead, we move through stages that reflect our mindset, emotions, and readiness. When we understand this natural flow, change feels less daunting and much more doable. A life coach walks alongside you through this process — helping you understand where you are, navigate what comes up, and move forward with steady, supported momentum.

1. The Daydream | Pre-Contemplation

Most often at this stage, there is no serious plan for change. The idea of change lives more in daydreams — not always about something specific, but simply a sense that something could be different. There’s a gentle tug within you, a pull toward something more, even if there isn’t yet clarity about what that looks like.

Example: Client thinks, “There has to be more than this job,” but hasn’t yet considered exploring new career options. They may feel restless, unfulfilled, or quietly dissatisfied, but haven’t taken steps to name what they want or imagine a different path. The feeling is there — the direction is not yet clear.

2. Imagining Possibilities | Contemplation

Here, the possibility of change becomes a little stronger. The inner pull toward something different starts to feel more real. We begin asking questions like, “Could I actually do this? What would it look like? Can I make it work?” This stage is about exploring options and weighing what feels exciting alongside what feels uncertain. Hope and doubt often sit side by side — and that’s a very normal part of the process.

Example: A client imagines leaving their current job to start a small business, but wonders, “Could I actually make this work?” They might find themselves researching ideas, picturing a different lifestyle, or talking themselves in and out of the possibility. The vision feels exciting — and at the same time, uncertainty and practical concerns begin to surface.

3. Getting Ready | Preparation

This is a pivotal point in the change process. The idea of transformation begins to shift into clear intention. People start preparing for what’s next by learning new skills, gathering resources, and having important conversations. They organize their environment and mindset for action, building confidence and setting realistic goals for the path ahead.

Example: A client updates their résumé, researches training programs, or begins having conversations with people in a field they’re curious about. They’re gathering information, testing ideas, and starting to picture themselves in a new role. Small, intentional steps begin to replace uncertainty with growing confidence.

4. Taking Steps | Action

This is where intention turns into action. Commitment and effort come to the forefront as people actively work toward their goals, try new behaviors, and adjust along the way. It’s a stage of forward movement — and while setbacks are common, each step builds experience, resilience, and momentum.

Example: A client leases a work space, applies for new roles, or launches the first offering of their new business. They’re putting themselves out there, learning as they go, and beginning to see themselves in this new role as confidence and clarity grow through experience.

5. Sustaining Change | Maintenance

This stage is about keeping new habits alive and supporting what’s been created. It requires ongoing self-awareness and, at times, revisiting earlier stages to reconnect with motivation. This is where you live the change, even when it’s hard.

This is where new ideas are put to the test, real life sets in, and moments of fear or doubt can quietly reappear. Having a trusted partner alongside you helps steady the process and reinforces the changes you’ve worked so hard to create.

Example: A client settles into their new career, continues developing their skills, and practices supportive mindset habits that keep them motivated and grounded. Along the way, they navigate moments of doubt, missteps, busy seasons, and growing pains — while also pausing to celebrate progress, confidence, and the life they’re actively creating.

Create time where your attention is fully on YOU.

Even the most dedicated, self-aware, and consistent people benefit from a supportive partnership through these stages of change. A coaching partnership creates space for someone who truly gets to know you — your goals, your patterns, your strengths, and what support works best for you. A coach can remind you of what you’ve already accomplished, reflect back your growth, and gently challenge familiar thinking at just the right moments.

I’ve experienced this firsthand. I’ve been in business for five years, and I’ve met with my coach every month throughout that journey. She has walked beside me through each of these stages. Now, when doubt creeps in, new ideas emerge, or big decisions arise, she offers great questions, perspective and support that help me move forward with clarity and confidence.

Coaching vs Mentorship

Both Valuable, Just Different

Coaching can feel confusing because many people use the word “coach” in different ways. Often, someone shares their expertise, teaches a method, or guides you in a specific area. That kind of support is closer to mentorship — learning from someone who has walked the path before you.

Coaching is different. A coaching partnership is about helping you find your own answers. It’s grounded in understanding human behavior, mindset, and change. A coach supports you in exploring your thoughts, clarifying your goals, and creating strategies that fit your life — not someone else’s.

Both mentorship and coaching are valuable. Mentors tend to be especially helpful in later stages of change, when you’re taking action, or maintaining momentum and want guidance that comes from experience.

A coach, on the other hand, walks with you through every stage — helping you stay connected to your inner wisdom, navigate challenges, and move forward in a way that feels true to you.

Together, they can create powerful, well-rounded support for growth.

The Right Support Starts With Knowing Where You Stand

Understanding the stages of change helps both coaches and clients move through the process with more ease. It prevents pushing too fast or expecting immediate results, and instead creates space for patience, clarity, and realistic next steps. When clients recognize their current stage, they feel seen and understood. They can offer themselves more grace, & compassion and approach growth in a way that feels supportive rather than overwhelming.

As clients move from one stage to the next, moments of uncertainty, discomfort and fear will arise. These transitions are some of the most meaningful coaching spaces. With the right support, they become powerful turning points that lead to the lasting changes you desire.

How I Use the Stages of Change in My Coaching Practice

• We start by identifying where you are in your readiness for change — what stage you’re in, what you want, what feels stuck, and what feels possible right now.

• We clarify goals and create simple, realistic next steps that fit your life and energy.

• We build structures for support and accountability that feel encouraging, not pressuring.

• We notice and normalize fears, doubts, and setbacks when they arise — and develop tools to move through them.

• We celebrate progress, reflect on growth, and adjust direction as needed.

• Through it all, you have a steady partner in your corner, helping you stay connected to your vision and follow through on meaningful change.

Ready to Get Started?

Here’s what the next steps look like

• Schedule a 30-minute Discovery Session. Bring your ideas & questions!

This is a relaxed conversation to explore your goals, ask questions, and see if the partnership feels like a good fit.

• After our call, if we both feel aligned, we’ll choose a coaching package (typically 6–12 sessions) and create a schedule that fits your life and level of support.

• Sessions are most commonly held biweekly or monthly, depending on your stage of change, your goals, and your personal timeline. My 12-session package offers exceptional value and provides a full year of monthly coaching. This option creates space for meaningful transformation, steady accountability, and ongoing partnership as your goals and vision continue to evolve.

• From there, we begin — with a clear starting point, supportive structure, and a partner in your corner.

Laura Ramirez, BS, MA, Counselor, Life Coach | Berlin, CT

For more information about working with Laura Ramirez — Life coach and Reiki mentor — visit lauraramirezllc.com. Laura offers both in-person and remote sessions. Coaching packages provide supportive structure and meaningful partnership, helping clients clarify ideas, stay accountable, and move steadily toward their goals.