If you're not making progress with weight loss and fat loss, there are reasons. You need to identify the reasons or you will continue to go in circles. Some of you are so frustrated that you have stopped trying to transform your body to lean and toned.

If you are in this situation, get help from a personal trainer. Part of the first fitness consultation with a personal trainer will include you identifying why your fitness goals have failed in the past.

Another part of the consultation is for you to visualize and set realistic fitness goals you are willing to work towards.

In my experience with clients, these 5 things slow or stop progress towards weight loss and fat loss goals:

1. Fear of failure. Many of you have tried over and over to lose fat and weight. When fear or deep frustration creeps in, it can paralyze you into doing little or nothing to reach your goals. Its hard to keep trying. Its easier to quit.

According to the Mayo Clinic, you should focus on the process rather than the outcome.

The Mayo Clinic goes on to say, "Exercise regularly is an example of a process goal, while "weigh 145 pounds" is an example of an outcome goal. It's changing your processes — your daily behaviors and habits — that's key to weight loss, not necessarily focusing on a specific number on the scale. Just make sure that your process goals are specific, measurable and realistic, too."

In my practice, that means clients commit to regular strength training, cardio training and changing eating habits.

2. Low self esteem. This affects every area of life and not just setting and reaching fitness goals.

According to Cognitive Therapy Associates, "Self-esteem, self-confidence, self-image...these are the...