Staying Intentional with your Health Goals during the Holidays
The holidays are here, and we know they come with all the delicious treats and packed schedules. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with a plan to help you enjoy the season and stay on track with your goals. Let’s dive in together!
Set Your Holiday Goals
First things first—what’s your goal this holiday season? If you’re nervous about stepping on the scale come January, maybe just maintaining your current weight is a win. Or, if you’re crushing it with your progress, you could keep losing, but it’ll take a little extra planning. Whatever you choose, consistency is the secret sauce! Stick to your workouts and balanced meals (even when the schedule gets hectic). And remember, success is your definition—it’s all about finding the balance that works for you.
Stick to Your Plan
Okay, so you’ve set your goal—now let’s make it happen. If you don’t already have a game plan, consider chatting with a pro like a dietitian or trainer to get started. Then, stick to your routines as much as possible! If oatmeal or eggs are your go-to breakfast, keep it that way instead of grabbing a sugary holiday drink. Of course, the holidays are for enjoying, but moderation is your best friend. And here’s a pro tip: weigh yourself regularly (if that’s your thing) to check in on how your choices are lining up with your goal—no judgment, just awareness!
Plan for the Fun Stuff
We all love holiday traditions, but it’s easy to go overboard with the endless feasts and treats. Here’s the deal: pick the celebrations and foods that truly matter to you. Maybe it’s your grandma’s famous pie or your family’s Christmas dinner spread—savor those moments guilt-free. For the rest? Be selective! Fill up on veggies, enjoy one slice of homemade bread instead of processed rolls, and maybe limit that peppermint mocha to one epic shopping trip. It’s all about enjoying the best parts and letting the rest go.
Enjoy Treats Without Eating Them
Here’s a fun hack: you don’t actually have to eat every cute holiday treat you see. I mean, those elaborately decorated cookies? Adorable, but you can totally admire them without indulging. If someone gifts you treats, it’s okay to freeze them, share them, or even re-gift (shh, I won’t tell!). The goal here is to enjoy the holiday vibes without feeling like you have to taste everything in sight.
Switch Up Traditions
If baking mountains of cookies makes it tough to stick to your goals, why not try something new? Crafting homemade ornaments or decorating stockings can be just as festive—and way less tempting. And if you’re heading to a party, bringing your own healthy dish ensures you’ll have options that fit your plan. Bonus: you’ll be the thoughtful guest who brought the awesome veggie platter!
Keep Moving (and Make It Fun!)
Let’s face it, staying active during the holidays can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to feel like a chore. How about making movement part of the fun? Walk through a holiday light display, go ice skating, or even organize a family bowling night. You’ll get in some steps and create memories that aren’t centered around food. Plus, it’ll help you feel energized during this busy time!
Your Holiday Action Plan
So here’s what we’re doing:
- Set your goal—whether it’s maintaining or losing weight, write it down and own it.
- Plan your treats—pick a few special ones and enjoy them guilt-free.
- Stay mindful—don’t feel pressured to eat every treat or overindulge at every party.
- Keep moving—add some fun, festive activities to your calendar!
You’ve got this! Let’s make this holiday season one to remember, full of joy, fun, and just the right amount of indulgence. Cheers to a happy, healthy you! 🎉