Many people have tried to replace real human interaction with smartphone apps. This could be an app to remind you to do something or even an app that tracks your calories. Some people use automated messages and others use email. This can work to some extent, but it’s nothing like being accountable to a real person.
It doesn’t need to be a serious coaching effort either. This isn’t a progress report and you’re not going to be punished for failing. Instead, it’s just a simple chat to see how you’re doing, to encourage you and to keep your motivation going. Humans are social creatures, and we thrive on the interaction we get from engaging with others. We’re far more likely to have meaningful conversations with an actual person as opposed to machines with automated responses.