This article was written about Brian Zahn, a gaduate of Southwest Institute of Healing Arts' Life Coaching program.

By Kelly Mixer

It's a new year - that time of the season when people get serious about losing weight, quitting smoking or looking for a new job. Unfortunately, many of those New Year's resolutions go by the wayside after a month or two. Brian Zahn, a local transformational life coach, says the most common resolutions made are to drop extra pounds and develop a better relationship with family, friends and loved ones.

"They want a more meaningful and passionate life, full of happiness that they seem to neglect in themselves," he says, adding that many people seek out life coaches when they know where they want to be in life, but have trouble getting there.

One of the toughest cases Zahn has seen was an overweight woman who had lost her own identity because of her mother.

"Food wasn't the issue - just a substitute in ignoring her real reason to be happy."

When it comes to keeping those New Year's resolutions, Zahn suggests staying focused on the real issues and to understand that happiness and how to maintain it is important.  "Keeping a journal of thoughts and feelings helps," he says. "Also, writing a life statement and creating a photo and word montage that you can see every day. It's a great motivational tool."

Display notes around the house with encouraging words and say a mantra to yourself is also a good recommendation.

"The importance is planting those seeds in your conscious mind and then allowing your subconscious to let it grow."

Zahn helps his clients stay on track all year by being available in person, online or by cell phone most any time of the day to listen and encourage them.

"We work on several tools and techniques, including visualization and value wheels, which help in the process of keeping one focused and aware of their goals," he says.

Whatever goals one sets, Zahn reminds everyone that they only live once.

"To really live a happy, fulfilled life you must be present for it," he says. "Most of the time we are preoccupied with so many other things of non-importance, that we forget to live for today and enjoy what is around us."

His quote for the New Year?

"May the best of your past be the worst of your future!"

For details, contact Zahn at 480-254-5000, by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , or visit www.anewviewtoanewyou.com.

Kelly Mixer is a freelance reporter living in Gilbert and may be reached at Kelly@SanTan Sun.com.