Seeing a clear log of what you plan to achieve — and what you've already achieved — is a great way to maintain momentum. "I like to keep a calendar so I can see that I've completed all the workout goals I set for myself for the week," says Decker. "I highlight them so then it motivates me to keep the pattern going." Don't overthink the log. It can be done with literal paper and pen, tracked in your phone notes, or even a white erase board in your fridge.

Image via emiliozv/Getty

"Get a gym buddy, or better known as an accountability partner," advises Austin Brock, a certified trainer and coach, and the co-owner of Slash Fitness in Delray Beach, Florida. "Whether it's your spouse, a family member, or a colleague, having someone else taking the journey with you is a great way to keep your health and fitness goals on track. Especially on those days in March when you are tired and don't want to get out of bed to hit the gym!"

Image via Willie B. Thomas/Getty

Try not to let yourself feel paralyzed by the idea of perfection, which can prevent you from even starting in the first place!

"Wanting something to be perfect, or waiting until the perfect time, will only paralyze you. You just have to start. I promise you, it's not easy for anyone at first, but it will get easier." Says Decker. "Changing little everyday habits is how you start to see big changes eventually."

For a fitness newbie, that might look like setting a goal to hit a certain number of steps every day, or trying one new workout per month, or talking a 30-minute walk three times a week. For someone who's more intermediate, that means building upon the progress you've already made. Maybe you add one more workout to your regular routine, or you up your step-goal by 1000. Whatever it is, make it measurable and realistic, and try not to get too wrapped up in the idea of being perfect 100% of the time. You're human, and any step toward progress and self-care is ultimately a win!

Image via PeopleImages/Getty

It's easy to turn fitness or nutrition into a "chore" or worse yet — punishment. In reality, Brock reminds us that having the ability to move your body is a privilege. This is particularly true after 2020.

"Being active allows you to enjoy life and your environment that much more. With regards to nutrition, don't think about the foods that you 'can't have.' Rather, think of all of the new fun foods and recipes that you can discover by eating a healthier and more diverse diet. Make it fun," says Brock. "Make it a family activity or turn it into a date night where you can both learn something new. It's all a journey that you should enjoy doing every day!"

Image via Westend61/Getty

I recently came across a sticker that said, "I work out because I love my body — not because I hate it" and that resonated so much. In our diet, exercise, and perfection-seeking culture it can be easy to lose that perspective.

"For example, I do look differently than I did at the beginning of 2020, even as a health and wellness professional," says Schenone. "I know if I create a fitness goal born out of shame for the way I look — e.g. 'My loose jeans don't fit anymore; I need to lose x pounds' — I am setting myself up for failure. If I create a fitness goal that honors where I am in my health journey and focuses on what brings me joy, I am creating a goal that is sustainable, rooted in love, and results in positive benefits."

In 2021, base your fitness goals on what brings you joy and happiness, allow for wiggle room, maintain that big picture perspective, and congratulate yourself along the way.

Image via Thomas Barwick/Getty