America Takes It Off is about shrinking a size, and we're here to challenge you in the new year. So let's get right to it. Let's determine what really matters when you're trying to drop a few, because as simple as the whole calories-in, calories-out thing might seem, losing weight is rarely an easy task. These three tips will surely help matters, though.

• Calories -- Is it important to count them? Not really. What is important is portioning the food on your plate. Divide your plate into four quarters. Fill one quarter with lean chicken or fish, another quarter with a high-fiber carbohydrate like whole-wheat pasta and the other half with veggies and fruit. Use smaller plates too.
• Should you eat fat-free? No way. Go for healthy fats, like those found in nuts, olive oil and avocados. Just limit to no more than 30 percent of your total daily caloric intake.
• Do you need a gym to get fit? Nope. Your own personal space will do just fine. Park your car and walk. Walk around while you talk on the phone. Stand as much as possible. Add short breaks during your work day and walk briskly or do a few strength moves. Just move. And keep at it.

There are more tips where these came from -- you can find them here at AOL Health -- but these are the three we want you to focus on. Starting today, we want you to portion your plates, eat healthy fats and move, move, move. Sound difficult? It might be. That's why it's called a challenge. But we think you can do it. So get to work. Then come back on Wednesday and weigh in with us.