Set goals that are measurable and performance-based (and positive!). Aiming to run a 7-minute mile or even getting a 30-minute workout in 4x a week is preferable as compared to a goal to “get toned” (which is not measurable) or “lose weight” (which is rooted in getting away from something perceived as negative rather than aiming toward something positive, like increasing strength or improving mobility).

Be realistic - build slowly and with intention. Slow consistency will always win over workouts that are too intense or overloaded that leave you beaten down, injured, or unable to perform the following day. Let your workout be a reward to look forward to and not something to dread or push through just for the sake of getting it done. Enjoying your workout is the key to keeping it part of your routine.

Start small and grow slowly. Progress is progress any way you slice it, and you will SEE and FEEL results even from small changes in routine. As you become stronger and more confident, add reps, weight, and new exercises. Growth is the name of the game, and it will come both physically and mentally.

Measure your progress against your goals. A key to this is writing your goals down to hold yourself accountable - consider this a contract with and for yourself and your well-being. Try not to obsess over metrics like how many calories you burned; rather, acknowledge your progress in achieving skills-based goals that demonstrate your increasing strength (like completing your first pistol squat).