If you’ve ever wondered what a life coach actually does, you’re not alone. There are plenty of myths floating around—from “life coaches are just motivational speakers” to “anyone can just call themselves a coach.” As a certified life coach myself, I’ve guided people from all walks of life through everything from career confusion to messy breakups. I’ll break down my personal take on what life coaching really looks like, debunk the most persistent myths, and give you a peek behind the scenes of the coaching process.

What Is a Life Coach, Really?

At its core, life coaching is a professional relationship focused on helping clients make meaningful changes. The job isn’t about giving advice or even “fixing” people. My role is to offer a supportive space, ask thought-provoking questions, and help you see new possibilities. I like to say that coaching helps you connect the dots between where you are and where you want to be, whether the gap is big or just a tiny switch.

Life coaches don’t diagnose or treat mental health issues like therapists do. Instead, we focus on the present and future. Coaching is action oriented, about setting goals, brainstorming strategies, and being accountable. Sometimes, just saying your dreams out loud is powerful. Having someone in your corner can make tackling them feel a lot less scary.

Common Myths About Life Coaching

There are a few widespread misunderstandings I hear on a regular basis. Clearing these up can help you decide whether working with a life coach is right for you:

• “Life coaches have all the answers.” No coach has all the answers; certainly not me! A coach’s job is to help you find your own answers by asking the right questions, offering tools, and holding space for your growth.
• “Life coaching is just common sense.” Sometimes a coach will point out something obvious, but more often, we dig into blind spots you can’t see on your own. I’ve had my own coaches spot patterns I never noticed about myself.
• “Coaching is only for the rich or people with big problems.” Coaching is for anyone wanting change, not just CEOs or people in crisis. Many of my clients want help with clarity, confidence, or making career transitions.
• “Anyone can call themselves a coach, so it’s not credible.” This one is a bit true in some places, so finding a coach with proper training and accreditation is really important. I hold a certification approved by the International Coaching Federation, and I’m happy to talk about that process if you’re curious.

The Realities: What Life Coaches Actually Do

Every coaching session is a little different, but there are core things most coaches focus on. Here’s a peek at how it works in my practice:

• Goal Setting: We get specific about what you want and why it matters. Maybe you want a new job, or maybe you just want to handle stress better. Narrowing it down makes progress easier to track.
• Breaking Patterns: We explore recurring habits, beliefs, or mindsets that keep you stuck. One of my favorite parts of coaching is helping people see old patterns with fresh eyes.
• Creating Accountability: Together, we outline steps and decide how you’ll check in. Sometimes, just knowing someone will ask you about your progress is enough to get you moving.
• Providing Support: Coaching isn’t always about “winning” or hitting milestones every week. Sometimes there’s a setback, or real life gets busy. I’m here for the setbacks, too; not just the breakthroughs.

I like to say coaching is equal parts action and reflection. You make plans, try things out, and reflect on what worked (or didn’t). It’s kind of like being in your own experiment, with me as your guide.

How Life Coaching Differs from Therapy and Mentoring

People mix up coaching with other helping roles. Here’s how I break down the differences when new clients ask:

• Therapy: Focuses on healing, emotional processing, and often explores the past. Therapists handle mental health diagnoses. Coaches, like me, focus mainly on the present and future.
• Mentoring: Mentors usually have experience in your field and offer advice based on that. As a coach, I don’t tell you what to do based on my career path; I help you build strategies that fit your life and goals.

I’ve worked alongside therapists and mentors, and sometimes clients work with all three at once. The mix can actually be really helpful, especially during tough seasons of transition.

Understanding the Coaching Process: What to Expect

Every coach has a unique approach, but here’s a typical adventure with me:

1. Discovery: We start by digging into your goals, values, and what you want to change or explore. Sometimes this includes assessments or exercises; sometimes it’s just a really honest conversation.
2. Creating a Plan: We break big dreams into smaller, doable pieces. You don’t have to have your whole life figured out, just the next step.
3. Regular Check Ins: We meet (weekly or biweekly usually) and talk about what’s working and what needs tweaking. I’ve had clients completely pivot goals midway, which is totally fine!
4. Celebrating Progress: Recognizing even small wins is super important. A lot of people are harder on themselves than they realize, so I make a point of bringing attention to their progress.

Some clients work with me for a few months, others stick around for a year or more as new goals pop up. The pace should fit your needs, not just a calendar.

What to Consider Before Hiring a Life Coach

Choosing a coach can feel overwhelming. From my experience—both as a coach and someone who’s hired coaches myself—here are a few tips:

• Check Training and Accreditation: Ask about certification and background. Some coaches have years of experience or specialize in areas like relationships or career, so look for someone whose style really matches you.
• Look for Chemistry: You’ll want to feel comfortable being open. Chemistry matters just as much as credentials; an intro session or consultation helps you both get a feel for fit.
• Ask About Methods: Some coaches are more structured, with worksheets and plans. Others, like me, blend structure with conversation. Asking about tools and methods helps set your expectations.
• Clarify Commitment and Cost: Understand what’s expected—how often you’ll meet, what sessions cost, and whether there’s email or text support in between. Transparency sets everyone up for success.

I always encourage clients to ask tough questions up front. When I started working with my first coach, I had a list! It can feel awkward, but a solid coach will appreciate your curiosity.

Breaking Down Some Real Challenges, Plus Solutions

Even with a solid coach, you’ll run into roadblocks. Here’s how I help my clients through them:

Getting Stuck in Old Patterns

It can be hard to break habits that have been around for years. One thing that helps: naming the pattern out loud. Sometimes, I’ll call out what I’m hearing (“You mention putting off decisions a lot; what’s going on there?”). Bringing that awareness makes it easier to change.

Imposter Syndrome and Self Doubt

Everyone experiences these, even super accomplished clients. I use mindset exercises, like reframing negative thoughts or tracking actual wins, to help clients recognize how much progress they’ve made. I even do these myself on tough days.

Hitting a Plateau

Goals that start out exciting can lose steam. I like to mix things up with new exercises or even switch coaching environments; moving from a call to a walk outside, for instance. A change of scenery can spark new ideas.

Life Coaching in Action: Real World Applications

Life coaching isn’t only about big moments; sometimes, it’s about everyday wins. Here are a few areas where I’ve seen coaching make a real difference:

• Time Management: Helping busy clients set boundaries and stop overcommitting. Together, we create practical routines and ways to hold themselves accountable.
• Career Transitions: Supporting people making switch ups to new industries, promotions, or business launches. Coaching can offer clarity and reduce overwhelm during stressful times.
• Personal Growth: Working with clients to boost confidence and strengthen communication in their friendships, partnerships, or family relationships.
• Wellbeing: Guiding people who want to take better care of their mental or physical health, set gentle goals, and celebrate progress without judgment.

One recent client used coaching as a way to turn Sunday night dread into a launchpad for planning a more meaningful workweek. It wasn’t about huge changes, but stacking small wins until the whole picture looked brighter over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Life Coaching

A few questions pop up all the time, so here’s my straight up take:

Is coaching confidential? Totally. Like therapy, coaching is a confidential space.

How do I know if coaching is working? You might notice yourself taking more action, feeling less stuck, or even just thinking differently about challenges. It’s not always overnight, but small switch ups add up.

Can I get coaching virtually? Absolutely. Most of my sessions these days are over Zoom or phone, and it works just as well as in person, sometimes even better since you can be in your favorite space.

Final Thoughts: Is Life Coaching Right for You?

Life coaching can be a super useful resource if you’re ready for a change, even if you’re not sure what that change looks like yet. It’s about having someone in your corner who listens without judgment, holds you accountable, and celebrates your wins with you. If you value reflection, want to move forward, and appreciate a little nudge now and then, coaching could be a great fit.

If you have more questions about life coaching, or want to chat about whether it makes sense for your situation, feel free to reach out or schedule a quick consultation. My favorite part of this job is seeing people surprise themselves with just how much they’re capable of. If you’re curious about how coaching could fit in your life, let’s have a conversation and track down your best next step together.

If you’ve ever wondered what a life coach actually does, you’re not alone. There are plenty of myths floating around—from “life coaches are just motivational speakers” to “anyone can just call themselves a coach.” As a certified life coach myself, I’ve guided people from all walks of life through everything from career confusion to messy breakups. I’ll break down my take on what life coaching looks like, debunk the most persistent myths, and give you a peek behind the scenes of the coaching process.

What Is a Life Coach?

At its core, life coaching is a professional relationship focused on helping clients make meaningful changes. The job isn’t about giving advice or even “fixing” people. My role is to offer a supportive space, ask thought-provoking questions, and help you see new possibilities. I like to say that coaching enables you to connect the dots between where you are and where you want to be, whether the gap is big or just a tiny switch.

Life coaches don’t diagnose or treat mental health issues like therapists do. Instead, we focus on the present and future. Coaching is action-oriented, centered on setting goals, brainstorming strategies, and holding oneself accountable. Sometimes, simply sharing your dreams out loud can be powerful. Having someone in your corner can make tackling them feel a lot less scary.

Common Myths About Life Coaching

There are a few widespread misconceptions I frequently encounter. Clearing these up can help you decide whether working with a life coach is right for you:

• “Life coaches have all the answers.” No coach has all the answers; certainly not me! A coach’s job is to help you find your own, which is somewhat true in some respects, so finding a coach with proper training and accreditation is crucial for your growth.
• “Life coaching is just common sense.” Sometimes a coach will point out something obvious, but more often, we dig into blind spots you can’t see on your own. I’ve had my own coaches spot patterns I never noticed about myself.
• “Coaching is only for the rich or people with big problems.” Coaching is for anyone wanting change, not just CEOs or people in crisis. Many of my clients want help with clarity, confidence, or making career transitions.
• “Anyone can call themselves a coach, so it’s not credible.” This is somewhat true in some respects, so finding a coach with proper training and accreditation is crucial. I hold a certification accredited/approved by the International Coaching Federation, and I’m happy to talk about that process if you’re curious.

The Realities: What Life Coaches Do

Every coaching session is a little different, but there are core things most coaches focus on. Here’s a peek at how it works in my practice:

• Goal Setting: We get specific about what you want and why it matters to you. Perhaps you’re looking for a new job, or maybe you want to manage stress more effectively. Narrowing it down makes progress easier to track.
• Breaking Patterns: We explore recurring habits, beliefs, or mindsets that keep you stuck. One of my favorite parts of coaching is helping people see old patterns with fresh eyes.
• Creating Accountability: Together, we outline steps and decide how you’ll check in. Sometimes, just knowing someone will ask you about your progress is enough to get you moving.
• Providing Support: Coaching isn’t always about “winning” or hitting milestones every week. Sometimes there’s a setback, or real life gets busy. I’m here for the setbacks, too, not just the breakthroughs.

I like to say coaching is equal parts action and reflection. You make plans, try things out, and reflect on what worked (or didn’t). It’s kind of like being in your own experiment, with me as your guide.

How Life Coaching Differs from Therapy and Mentoring

People mix up coaching with other helping roles. Here’s how I break down the differences when new clients ask:

• Therapy: Focuses on healing, emotional processing, and often explores the past. Therapists handle mental health diagnoses.
  Life Coaches, like me, focus mainly on the present and future.
• Mentoring: Mentors typically have experience in your field and offer advice based on that expertise.
  As a life coach, I don’t tell you what to do based on my career path; I help you build strategies that fit your life and goals.

I’ve worked alongside therapists and mentors, and sometimes clients work with all three at once. I work as a life coach and conscious business mentor, helping people into entrepreneurship.

Understanding the Coaching Process: What to Expect

Every coach has a unique approach, but here’s a typical adventure with me:

1. Discovery: We begin by exploring your goals, values, and what you want to change or explore. Sometimes this includes assessments or exercises; sometimes it’s just a candid conversation.
2. Creating a Plan: We break big dreams into smaller, doable pieces. You don’t have to have your whole life figured out, just the next step.
3. Regular Check-Ins: We meet (weekly or biweekly, mid-way) to discuss what’s working and what needs tweaking.
4. Celebrating Progress: Recognizing even small wins is super important. Many people are harder on themselves than they realize, so I make a point of drawing attention to their progress.

Some clients work with me for a few months, while others stick around for a year or more as new goals emerge. The pace should fit your needs, not just a calendar.

What to Consider Before Hiring a Life Coach

Choosing a coach can feel overwhelming. From my experience—both as a coach and someone who’s hired coaches myself—here are a few tips:

• Check Training and Accreditation: Ask about certification and background. Some coaches have years of experience or specialize in areas like relationships or careers, so look for someone whose style matches you.
• Look for Chemistry: You’ll want to feel comfortable being open and honest. Chemistry matters as much as credentials; an introductory session or consultation helps you both get a feel for a good fit.
• Ask About Methods: Some coaches are more structured, with worksheets and plans. Others, like me, blend structure with conversation. Asking about tools and methods helps set your expectations.
• Clarify Commitment and Cost: Understand what’s expected—how often you’ll meet, what sessions cost, and whether there’s email or text support in between. Transparency sets everyone up for success.

I always encourage clients to ask tough questions up front. When I started working with my first coach, I had a list! It can feel awkward, but a solid coach will appreciate your curiosity. This is why I always offer new clients one to two hours of gifted sessions to see if we are a perfect match, and that I can also help. I’d love to discuss other questions and goals you may have. Self-Doubt

Breaking Down Some Real Challenges and Solutions

Even with a solid coach, you’ll run into roadblocks. Here’s how I help my clients through them:

Getting Stuck in Old Patterns

It can be hard to break habits that have been around for years. One thing that helps: naming the pattern out loud. Sometimes, I’ll call out what I’m hearing (“You mention putting off decisions a lot; what’s going on there?”). Bringing that awareness makes it easier to change.

Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt

Everyone experiences these, even super accomplished clients. I use mindset exercises, such as reframing negative thoughts and tracking actual wins, to help clients recognize the significant progress they’ve made. I even do these myself on tough days.

Hitting a Plateau

Goals that start exciting can lose steam. I like to mix things up with new exercises or even switch coaching environments—moving from a call to a walk outside (if the client is local), for instance. A change of scenery can spark new ideas.

If you’re stuck, sometimes just talking things through in a new setting makes a world of difference. For example, we might brainstorm creative solutions while sipping coffee together at a local café, or even assign “homework” challenges that encourage outside-the-box thinking. Introducing fresh approaches can really help people break out of ruts and regain momentum.

Life Coaching in Action: Real World Applications

Life coaching isn’t only about big moments; sometimes, it’s about everyday wins. Here are a few areas where I’ve seen coaching make a real difference:

• Time Management: Helping busy clients set boundaries and stop overcommitting. Together, we create practical routines and ways to hold themselves accountable.
• Career Transitions: Supporting people making switches to new industries, promotions, or business launches.
• Personal Growth: Working with clients to boost confidence and strengthen communication in their friendships, partnerships, or family relationships.
• Wellbeing: Guiding people who want to take better care of their mental or physical health, set gentle goals, and celebrate progress without judgment.

One recent client used coaching as a way to turn Sunday night dread into a launchpad for planning a more meaningful workweek. It wasn’t about massive changes, but stacking small wins until the whole picture looked brighter over time.

On a practical level, coaching might include designing a tailored morning routine that actually sticks or breaking down overwhelming projects so they feel doable. Over time, people often realize that consistent small steps can truly reshape their entire outlook and lead to lasting success.

Frequently Asked Questions About Life Coaching

A few questions pop up all the time, so here’s my straight-up take:

Is coaching confidential? Totally. Like therapy, coaching is a confidential space.

How do I know if coaching is working? You might notice yourself taking more action, feeling less stuck, or even just thinking differently about challenges. It’s not always overnight, but small switch-ups add up. Sometimes clients start to notice that things which once felt impossible now feel manageable, or that they celebrate achievements they would have overlooked before.

Can I get coaching virtually? Absolutely. Most of my sessions these days are conducted over Zoom, and they work just as well as in-person sessions, sometimes even better, because you can be in your favorite space. Virtual coaching can actually make things easier; you can join a session from your home, car, or even during a lunch break at work.

Is Life Coaching Right for You?

Life coaching can be a super helpful resource if you’re ready for a change, even if you’re not sure what that change looks like yet. It’s about having someone in your corner who listens without judgment, holds you accountable, and celebrates your wins with you. If you value reflection, want to move forward, and appreciate a little nudge now and then, coaching could be a great fit.

If you have further questions about life coaching or would like to discuss whether it’s a good fit for your situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out or schedule a gifted consultation session. My favorite part of this job is seeing people surprise themselves with just how much they’re capable of.