With numerous social events in November and December, staying on track during the holidays can be a challenge! Besides the twinkling lights and cheery music, we all know that food takes center stage starting with the Halloween candy.
Maybe you’re already feeling the sugar-induced hangover after bellying up to the kids’ ghoulish candy cauldron, or perhaps, you’re living in a cloud of regret after overindulging on Thanksgiving – a time when it’s socially acceptable to eat until nauseated.
Whatever the case, it can be tricky to navigate the holidays – or rather, any social event – especially if you’re trying to manage your weight.
Unfortunately Santa can’t leave a slimmer, trimmer waistline under the Christmas tree. While he can deliver a fancy, schmancy indoor bike, new tennis shoes, or the ever-dreaded unforgiving wifi scale, it’s ultimately up to YOU to use them!
The Best of Intentions
This is why getting crystal clear on your intention and motivations are important.
Imagine it’s January 2023. Do you want to start the year slumped over in a pair of too-tight-to-be-comfortable pants or already ahead of the gang by requesting a healthy gift for Christmas? Or consider just maintaining your weight during the holidays? That’s right, maintaining is a win!
I am not saying to avoid seasonal treats or skimp out on Thanksgiving {we all relish in eating like a slob and no one else seems to care!}. What I am getting at is it’s only one day. Whether it’s Thanksgiving day, Christmas Eve, or the revolving door of family get-togethers, take it as just that – one day at a time.
One meal or one day isn’t going to make or break a health or weight loss goal. What you eat over the course of the week and month will.
Choose 2-3 Priorities
Ultimately, staying on track during the holidays comes down to being consistent with your goals. By identifying your priorities ahead of time, you’ll have a plan in place and your intentions top-of-mind when the time comes to politely decline a third helping of mashed potatoes from Aunt Carol.
Below are several suggestions for how to stay on track during the holidays. Choose no more than 2-3 priorities and don’t be too hard on yourself.
- Prioritize sleep
- Find time for movement
- Make time for self-care
- Stay hydrated
- Commit to filling 1/2 your plate with vegetables
- Avoid eating while standing up {sit down and enjoy your food!}
- Plan 2-3 dinners for the week
- Make family and friends the priority {not food}
- Pack a lunch
- Bring a healthy dish to pass
Keep it simple. It’s the little things that build consistency and momentum. Give yourself the gift of grace this holiday season. You deserve it!
Words from the Wise
“You can’t fail if you don’t try.”
– Jon Acuff, author of Finish^
Don’t let the never-ending web of social events or holiday schedule hold you back from setting or reaching your goals. Recognize that setbacks are inevitable, and as stated above – “You can’t fail if you don’t try!”
I recently listened to Finish by Jon Acuff^. Oh my gosh, it was amazing! This is the best {and most funny} goal setting book.
Jon talks about how “quitting happens the day after perfection.” We tend to get discouraged if we’re not perfect on day one. With this attitude, we tend to “pre-quit” as Acuff would say. Sadly, we choose to not even try and get a “zero” rather than actually attempting something half-assedly and getting “50%.”
This is precisely why I planned a “prep” week into my signature LIFe program. It allows members to get familiar with the tools, resources, and learning objectives. Being able to “practice” reduces the urge to quit if you fall short on day one. Progress over perfection people!
In health,
Kayla Girgen, RD, LD
Registered Dietitian
Digital Creator, LIFe app
Blogger, Nutrition Untapped
^Indicates affiliate links. When you make a purchase through any of the links, there is no additional cost to you, and I may make a small {and very appreciated} commission. Thank you for your support!
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