In the bustling city of Chicago, residents are already diving into their New Year’s resolutions with enthusiasm and determination.

For many, the onset of a new year signals a fresh start, and while the intentions are strong, following through on resolutions can be challenging. Consistency is often touted as the secret ingredient to success. Whether it’s frequenting the gym or cultivating a habit of gratitude, Chicagoans are embracing various paths to self-improvement.

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Yuna Nordeen, a local who has mastered the art of building positive habits, shares her approach to overcoming inertia.

“I use a method called 54321,” Nordeen explains. “When I’m reluctant to do something, I just count down internally from 5 to 1, and then take a small step forward. These tiny actions eventually accumulate into significant progress.”

This year, inspired by her 3-year-old son, Nordeen is resolute about banishing fear and staying committed to a journey towards better health and happiness.

“Years ago, I was diagnosed with the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, so I was 40 pounds heavier. So, that fear was a jumpstart for me to get into fitness,” Nordeen said.

John Cwiok is a Lifetime personal training leader.

“People underestimate, like, the power of just showing up, right?” Cwiok said. “Just understand, this is a long, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. You know, it does take time.”

For some, it is about setting a goal of intention, like riding bikes, in order to get closer to what they are looking forward to in 2026.

“Finding something that you enjoy, I don’t know, whether that’s like dancing or pickleball,” said Francesca Flores. “More happiness, I don’t know, finding more joy in the world.”

For others, it is about treating every year with the same care and concern.

“Just keep doing what I’m doing. But breathe. You know, stretch. Focus on nutrition, kindness,” said one man, named Rob.

Health and fitness coach Sandi Berger says even if you do not hit your goal on Jan. 1, the important thing is that you start.

“I never make resolutions because I’m a fitness trainer and a health coach, and I live every day as if I’m living my resolutions,” Berger said. “Start right when the iron is hot, could be June 1. Could be January 1. But just get on that bandwagon and do it.”

A couple of the health and fitness coaches ABC7 spoke with said it can be helpful to journal, make vision boards or find accountability partners to help make the New Year’s resolution stick.