This time of year is wonderful, but with all of the treats and holiday parties, it can be hard to stick to your goals. How do you navigate the desserts and the hors d’oeuvres everywhere you go? How do we act like Uncle Nick is funny when he tells the same story every year? Well, we can’t help you fake laugh at Uncle Nick, but we can help set you up for success with your goals during this holiday season.
5 tips to help you stick to your goals during the holiday season
Track what you eat. If you’re feeling a bit off, sometimes tracking your food on an app or a paper can help you to have more awareness of what you’re eating. Did you eat 5 cookies mid-afternoon? Maybe it was because you didn’t have a balanced breakfast. Tracking occasionally (for one to three days) can help you create awareness and accountability for yourself to stick to your goals. We know that tracking intake is not always the best idea for many who have experienced disordered eating. If you know that it will be triggering for you in any way, then follow your gut. Otherwise, it’s a great temporary tool to become more aware of what you’re eating, how much you’re eating, and when you’re eating.
Budget your day. If you know you are going to a holiday party or special outing, budget your day of eating for that event. This could be switching out your large breakfast for the large dinner at the holiday party. Or, trading the chips in your lunch for an apple … whatever works for you while satisfying your hunger. By the way, if you do overeat at that dinner party, it does not mean the rest of the week is ruined.
Perform physical activity in the morning. Sometimes, moving in the morning can set the rest of the day up for success. It produces endorphins, gets the blood flowing, and helps dampen cravings.
Limit the alcohol. Not only does alcohol provide no nutritional value, it can also weaken the boundaries you set for yourself and lead to undesirable choices.
Strategize desserts. We all know that restricting food is not sustainable. Our body wants what it wants! Allow yourself desserts throughout the week to prevent binging on them later. This is a time to enjoy food and company! Balance is key.
Need help sticking to your goals all year long?
At the end of every day, we invite you to reflect on how thankful and grateful you are to enjoy this holiday season. Here at AZ Dietitians, we hope you have a very special month and are always here to support you along the way. So, no matter what time of year it is, we’re happy to help you stick to your goals so you can achieve the health and wellness you deserve and desire!
