“Health apps are hot. I have several and they are all great in their way (when I remember to use them). They all keep me accountable to myself and my goals within reach, but even in our high-tech world, nothing beats the high-touch impact of a real live human coach.”—Susan Bodiker

1. A health coach is a “guide on the side,” who empowers you to “heal yourself by yourself.” A mentor, who supports you as you do the hard mental work to uncover the barriers standing in the way of your goals whatever they may be: weight loss, career change, greater fitness, emotional joy. A trainer, who helps you develop smarter habits of mind and body.

2. A health coach is an accountability partner. It’s very easy to make resolutions, especially this time of year. A coach can help you keep them by reviewing your progress (or setbacks) with a regular schedule of conversations and finding solutions you can live with throughout the year.

3. A health coach can be the link between you and your doctor, nutritionist, trainers or other healers helping you understand the treatment plan (so you can follow it) and make healthful eating and exercise choices (so you can make them a part of your life).

4. A health coach can be a friend, a kick in the pants, a transformation agent—nurturing when you need it, encouraging when you falter, cheering your success. A good coach listens more than s/he speaks and provides a safe space where you can hear yourself think and uncover the solutions that are right for you.

If you want to walk the talk of a healthier, happier lifestyle, put a coach on your team. To learn more about how coaching can help you today and in the long term, please visit One Girl Wellness (onegirlwellness.com) to set up free coaching consultation.

Editor’s Note: Susan Bodiker founded One Girl Wellness to help girls and women overcome the image disorders that eat away at their self-esteem and prevent them from engaging confidently in their world. Her new e-book, “Fat Girl: how to let go of your weight and get on with your life,” can be purchased at www.susan-bodiker.com.

This post is a sponsored collaboration between One Girl Wellness and DC Life magazine’s advertising department.