Why resolutions don’t work

As 2015 rapidly approaches, many people think about what they’d like to accomplish in the new year.

Veronica Cabada joins the ranks of those who wants to get in shape and lose weight.

Cabada has been going to the gym for the last two weeks after a long hiatus.

“I used to work out everyday,” Cabada told ABC-7. “Coming back after two years, we set small milestones so I can reach it and it motivates me to get to the next level.”

Cabada’s approach is ideal, according to certified life coach Michelle Blumenfeld.

“Goals can be endless. If you do it in small steps its far more achievable,” Blumenfield added.

Blumenfeld says resolutions are just statements that won’t happen without a plan of action.

“I like to guide my clients into making an overall theme,” she said. “If you have a health goal, you need to look at what kind of steps can you take to achieve a goal.”

One tip is to find someone to hold you accountable, whether it be a friend or a personal trainer.

“I think if someone asks you to hold them accountable then they really want the feedback,” said Blumenfeld. “So, you as the friend ask, ‘How honest do you want me to be? How much do you want me to bug you to be sure you attain this goal?'”

Cabada is depending on her friend and gym buddy, Sal Montelongo, for motivation — and on herself to achieve her goals.

“You can’t expect that within a week you’re going to lose the 20 pounds you want to lose. You have to set goals weekly,” she said. “Once you achieve that it inspires you and motivates you to go to the next level.”

Blumenfeld said a new year isn’t necessary to set goals.

She suggests thinking about what you’d like to accomplish in your life on a monthly basis.