Coaching, Neuroplasticity and the Path to Change: How Long Does It Take to Start Living Differently?

Many women begin their self-development journey through a variety of tools. Some choose traditional psychology and therapy, others explore body-oriented approaches, and some turn to alternative methods such as astrology, spiritual practices, or energy work.

They read books, complete online courses, reflect deeply — and yet still find themselves feeling stuck.

“I understand everything, but I’m still not moving.” “Maybe something’s wrong with me…”

In reality, nothing is wrong with you. You are not lazy, broken, or lacking willpower. The human brain is wired to resist change until it feels safe, supported, and stable.

The fact that you’ve already begun the journey of self-inquiry, whether through therapy, spiritual tools, astrology, or other methods speaks to your inner strength and readiness for growth. That alone is already a significant and meaningful step.

This is precisely the kind of inner work that coaching supports, especially when grounded in the science of neuroplasticity and the solution-focused methodology of Erickson Coaching International, which shifts attention away from the problem and toward your resources, possibilities, and future direction.

What Is Neuroplasticity and Why Is It Key to Change?

Research in neuroscience has shown that our brains are capable of restructuring themselves at any age. They can form new connections, responses, and habits.

As neuropsychologist Donald Hebb once said:“What you pay attention to grows. Neurons that fire together wire together.”

This means that when you regularly focus on new thoughts, strategies, and behaviors, your brain builds new “pathways” and with repetition, those pathways become stronger. This is how habits and mental shortcuts (both helpful and limiting) are formed.

Coaching helps replace outdated neural patterns with new ones by offering intentional, structured, and supported ways to act, reflect, and grow.

Why Insight Alone Isn’t Enough?

Awareness is important, but by itself, it isn’t enough to create lasting change.Sustainable transformation requires repeated action.

Understanding is a cognitive process. Lasting behavioral change happens on a physical and emotional level  and it is formed through embodied action and consistent practice.

As Albert Einstein said:“We cannot solve a problem at the same level of thinking that created it.”

That’s why in coaching, we don’t just analyze your experiences - we co-create new ways of thinking, acting, and responding through practical steps, tools, and real-world experimentation. It’s a form of mental and emotional training.

The Role of the Brain in Change.

Your prefrontal cortex - the part of the brain responsible for planning, decisions, and self-regulation plays a key role in change. However, it has a limited capacity for energy and focus. This is why you may feel tired, doubtful, or scattered when implementing new habits.

Change requires effort. It can be uncomfortable, and that’s normal. Feeling this resistance doesn’t mean you’re failing, it means your brain is doing its job. Understanding that this is part of the path is essential.

Coaching Helps Shift You Out of Autopilot.

When working with a coach, you begin to move out of “autopilot mode” - the automatic thoughts and responses your brain uses to save energy. Instead, you begin to build awareness. You start noticing your inner narratives, questioning outdated beliefs, and intentionally choosing new responses. For example, if you’ve been telling yourself you’re not experienced enough to lead a project, your coach might ask:

“What would change if you allowed yourself to believe that you’re already good enough?”

This kind of question can open new pathways for thinking, feeling, and action.

How Long Does It Take to Create Lasting Change?

According to a study by health psychologist Dr. Phillippa Lally (University College London), it takes an average of 66 days to form a new habit. But forming one habit is not the same as transforming your identity, building confidence, or shifting deep-rooted behavioral patterns.

For deeper transformation, such as changing internal narratives or breaking through long-standing limitations - most people need three to six months of consistent coaching.

This is why long-term coaching creates sustainable change.As a coach, I support you not just in sessions, but between them. I help you set clear goals, track your progress, and stay focused, even when resistance shows up. You are given space to test, reflect, and try again until your “new self” becomes your new normal.

Why is it important not to wait, but to start small?

One of the traps of the mind is waiting for the perfect moment. But change doesn’t only happen when “everything aligns. Yes, there are more or less favorable times and circumstances. But true transformation begins the moment you choose to take the first step — even a small one.

Why do small steps work?

1.     They don’t overwhelm the brain.Our brain is wired to avoid sudden change. Big goals can trigger anxiety and internal resistance.Small steps, on the other hand, create a sense of safety, allowing the brain to engage without overload.

2.     They build neural pathways.According to the principles of neuroplasticity, every new choice even the simplest one strengthens new neural connections.This is the foundation of sustainable change.

3.     They create a sense of control and confidence.

 

Your first step might begin with a coaching session where you allow yourself to be truly honest. And with the question: “What can I do today to feel even 1% closer to myself?”

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