As we prepare for the holidays, I’ve been thinking about my best advice. This can be a time filled with love and joy, but with it comes overeating and overdrinking.
I was considering what to write about – stay hydrated, load up on veggies, listen to your hunger signals… the holiday eating lists are out there in full force right now. You could probably write the list yourself after reading them every year.
What I find is we know what to do physically, but something gets in the way.
Here’s what I want you to do.
1. Decide what you want for yourself ahead of time. One piece of pie, one glass of wine, no eating or drinking after 7… what’s the promise you’re going to make to yourself? Be realistic and plan for yourself, not based on diet guides.
2. Allow and enjoy what you decide. That means no “this is bad, I shouldn’t have this” talk as you’re sitting down to eat or drink. Be mindful and really enjoy it.
3. Watch for the voice that wants to criticize you. It will say, “I have such a big sweet tooth. Why am I like this?? I don’t have control. I’ve already had one, I may as well have another…”
4. This is the most important piece – If you have more than you planned, don’t say f* it and eat and drink for days.
Make a plan. Stick to the plan.
If something goes awry, don’t beat yourself up.
No I’ll finish the package or the tray, no I’ll start tomorrow, no I”ll start next week, no I’ll start after New Years.
Tell yourself, “I didn’t mean to have so many cookies. That’s ok. I’ll be able to stop next time.”
All the little decisions add up.
You’re in control. You are strong. You are healthy. You are capable.