From "I Want" to "I Am Ready"

One thing that many professionals say to a coach or mentor is that they want to do something but need help or direction. “I want to change jobs,” “I want to read more books this year,” or “I want to ask for a promotion.” These desires sound clear, but often, they remain unfulfilled.

Here’s an interesting shift I suggest to them to try: replace “I want” with “I am ready.”

When we say “I want,” it stays in the realm of abstraction—an idea, a dream, or even just wishful thinking. However, when we say “I am ready,” we’re signaling a readiness to act. It shifts our focus from desire to commitment.

This change forces a reality check: Are you genuinely prepared to take the necessary steps?

• “I am ready to speak at a conference”—Are you willing to brainstorm a topic, submit a proposal, spend hours preparing, and face an audience while knowing the talk will live online forever?
• “I am ready to change jobs”—Are you ready to update your resume, attend interviews, handle rejections, and face the stress of adapting to a new environment?

By making this mental shift, you bring your goals into sharper focus, forcing yourself to confront the effort and reality behind them.

Saying “I am ready” prompts you to map out what’s required:

1. What steps will this goal involve?
2. How much time, energy, and resources will it take?
3. Is this goal genuinely worth pursuing?

For instance, when you change from “I want to change jobs” to “I am ready to change jobs,” you might realize the process involves researching the job market, preparing for interviews, and managing the stress of starting over. This reflection might lead you to an alternative solution—like having an open conversation with your manager about a salary increase.

Now what if you're not a coach by profession but a leader during a 1-1?

In many cases, these honest conversations, when well-prepared, can lead to better results than jumping ship.

Ask the Right Questions: When someone expresses a vague desire, encourage them to reframe it as “I am ready to…” and explore the next steps.

“What would being ready to pursue this look like for you?”

“What’s the first step you’re ready to take?”

Guide Through Reality Testing: Help your team weigh the effort and outcomes of their goals by asking:

“What actions will this require, and are you ready for them?”

“Does this align with your long-term priorities?”

So what it all means, Anna?

“I want” is a way to dream. “I am ready” is a way to act.

If you’re not ready, that’s okay—it’s an opportunity to reevaluate whether the goal truly matters to you.