How to Stay on Track During the Holidays
Oh hey there! I have to confess something (because I’m terrible at lying)…I almost didn’t write this post. Why? Because 1. I have been busy (the excuse we use when we don’t prioritize something) and 2. I’m not a fan of saying you need to “stay on track”. Then I laughed at myself. Why?Because I was about to not post for the first time during my 100 day challenge and go off track myself.
That all being said, I want you to “stay on track” this holiday season and not feel like you are spiraling out of control. I want to give you some advice on how to navigate the holidays and more or less “stay on track” If you do feel like you are spiraling out of control, seek help from a professional, that’s what they are there for!
Plan Ahead
I’ll say it once and I’ll say it again. For those who forget to plan then plan to forget. It’s easy to think that you’ll be able to wing it, but this time of year, winging it normally means going off the rails. You plan your holiday parties, so why not plan your planning. I schedule in my meal prep this time of year because otherwise it doesn’t get done. Make an appointment to plan for yourself, it will set you up for success and de-stress you in the long run.
Stop regrets before they start
Worrying and regrets are like a rocking chair, you do a lot of work but you don’t get anywhere. So, you ate the thing, move one. This doesn’t mean losing all control, say F it and keep going. It means, stop having regrets about what you ate, stop dwelling on it, and instead, move on. The more you practice this, the easier it gets to separate your self-worth from the “junk” food. You are not that food, you ate that food, that’s it.
Keep it Simple
This isn’t the time of year to overcomplicate your health, nutrition, or fitness. Instead, find ways to simplify it. Maybe that means simplifying recipes, ordering a service like Sun Basket, planning to walk instead of training for a marathon, etc. It’s not the time of year to set unrealistic and lofty goals. Instead, keep things simple and make small changes if anything. It doesn’t mean you’re a failure, it just means your human and want to enjoy the holidays reasonably. Keep it simple silly!
Recruit Support
You are not alone this holiday season. Find friends to go for a walk with. Have a coach/trainer remind you to go to the gym. Find a support group who will help you stay out of trouble. Hire a dietitian to help you with your diet. Whoever it is that will be there for you and help hold you accountable, recruit them. Chances are they could probably use your help too, just ask.
Write Down Your Goals
So often we think about what our goals are but we never write them down. You can share them with others if you want but just make sure you write them down. I recommend writing them down and then posting them where you need to be reminded about them most. For example: refrigerator, bathroom mirror, agenda, car, work computer, gym bag, etc. If goals are out of sight, they are out of mind, so keep them in sight and on your mind. Just remember, keep them simple this time of year!
STRESS-LESS
Ok, this is easier said than done, I am aware of that. However, stressing out about what you ate, or not getting to the gym is just as bad if not worse than doing/not doing said things. Find what your stress triggers are (i.e. work, family, finances, diet/food/fitnessetc.) and figure out ways to manage them or at least mitigate them. You will come out on the other side of the holidays happier & healthier.
Remember the Basics
If all else fails, remember the basics. Drink water, get to sleep, eat your fruits & veggies, move a little, brush your teeth, etc. The simpler, the better. Health shouldn’t be complicated. You don’t need to count every last macro to be healthy this holiday season. And for the love of all things holidays, enjoy yourself a little bit, treat yo’self, and most importantly spread some joy.