There has been a shift in recent years towards people actively working on their mindset, recognising that success isn’t just about what we do, but how we think. While therapy has long been a go-to for emotional well-being, many are now turning to mindset coaching as a proactive way to break through limiting beliefs, build confidence, and create lasting change. Research from the International Coaching Federation found that the number of professional coaches worldwide has risen by 33% in just five years, reflecting the growth in demand for mindset coaches. But how does shifting your mindset actually work? And why does it make such a difference? Before we dive into the science, I want to share a bit of my own journey with coaching.
My Own Experience Investing in a Coach
For a long time, I felt stuck—like the life I truly wanted was always just out of reach. It felt like somebody else’s dream, not mine. Deep down, I was carrying subconscious blocks around scarcity, control, fear of failure and not feeling ‘good enough’ to create real change. No matter how much I wanted to move forward, I kept finding reasons why it wasn’t the right time or why it wouldn’t work out. It wasn’t until I started working with a mindset coach that I truly saw the ways I was holding myself back. Having someone to bear witness to my thought patterns and challenge the beliefs I had accepted as fact was eye-opening. I began recognising my own limiting stories and, little by little, shifting them into something more empowering.
Slowly but surely, I began taking steps towards the life I had only ever imagined. The transformation wasn’t instant, but each small win built momentum, and suddenly, what once felt impossible started to feel within reach. I noticed that shifting my mindset towards the positive became more natural, and with it, I found the courage to take bolder steps—expanding my comfort zone in ways I never thought possible. This experience not only changed my life but also fuelled my passion for helping others pursue their own dreams and step out of their own way to create lasting change.
Now For The Science Behind Mindset Work
1. Neuroplasticity: Your Brain Can Rewire Itself
Ever notice how the more you practice something, the easier it gets? That’s thanks to neuroplasticity—your brain’s ability to form new neural pathways. Every time you reinforce a thought or habit, your brain makes it easier to repeat. This means that if you’re stuck in a cycle of negative self-talk, you’re strengthening those patterns. As a mindset coach, I will help you break the cycle and build new, empowering beliefs instead. Over time, your brain will literally rewire itself for success.
2. CBT Principles: Your Thoughts Shape Your Reality
As a mindset coach, I am trained in principles borrowed from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is all about changing unhelpful thought patterns. Science has proven that our thoughts influence our emotions and actions, meaning if you believe something about yourself (e.g. “I’m not good enough”), you’ll subconsciously find ways to prove yourself right. As a coach, I can help you spot those limiting beliefs and replace them with ones that actually serve you.
3. Positive Psychology: Positivity Isn’t Just Woo-Woo
Positive thinking isn’t just a feel-good sentiment; it’s grounded in solid research. Researcher Fredrickson demonstrated that focusing on personal strengths, practicing gratitude, and setting meaningful goals demonstrably improves happiness and life satisfaction. Mindset coaching leverages these findings to help you transition from a negative bias to a more positive and proactive outlook, building resilience through proven techniques.
4. Reticular Activating System: Your Brain Filters What You Focus On
Have you ever considered buying a certain car and then suddenly see it everywhere? That’s your Reticular Activating System (RAS) at work—it filters what you notice based on what’s important to you – something neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart refers to as ‘value tagging’. This reinforces what we consciously and subconsciously focus on. If you constantly tell yourself you’re not good enough, your brain will find proof to back that up. As a mindset coach, I help facilitate the awareness of subconscious limiting beliefs and shift your focus towards empowering beliefs. The more we direct our attention towards empowering beliefs and goals, the more our brain filters in opportunities to support them, helping you create the reality you want.
5. Dopamine & Goal Setting: Small Wins Keep You Going
Your brain is wired to chase rewards. Every time you accomplish something—even a small goal—your brain releases dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical that boosts motivation. This is why setting and achieving goals is so powerful. As a mindset coach, I will help you break big dreams into small, doable steps, keeping you motivated and providing accountability to help you move forward with momentum.
6. Mirror Neurons: You Become Who You Surround Yourself With
Ever noticed how being around confident, positive people makes you feel more confident too? That’s because of mirror neurons—your brain’s way of mimicking the behaviours of those around you. Working with a mindset coach who embodies the mindset you want can actually reprogram your own thoughts and behaviours, making growth feel natural rather than forced.
Final Thoughts
Mindset shifts don’t happen by chance—they happen by design. Your brain is constantly adapting, filtering, and reinforcing what you feed it. By applying science-backed strategies, I can help you break through limiting beliefs, rewire unhelpful patterns, and build real momentum towards your goals. You don’t have to wait for change to happen—let’s make it happen together. Book a free discovery call today and take the first step towards the life you truly want.