The holidays are a difficult time for many who are striving to achieve their weight loss goals. The holidays do not have to be a difficult time. As long as you keep in mind a few pointers, you will still continue to achieve your goals and enjoy the holidays at the same time! The first mistake people need to avoid is give up completely on your goals, during the holiday season. Some people don’t even attempt to try staying on track rather they already have their mind made up that it is going to be impossible and therefore just put things off until after the Holidays are over. Making a decision like, “I’m NOT going to think about what I’m eating over the holidays at all — I’ll worry about it on January 1st,” is not the solution! With all the crazy-fattening foods that are everywhere during the holidays, that approach can easily cause you to gain several pounds very quickly. So don’t do that. Instead, take one day, one meal, and one snack at a time, and remain aware of what you are eating. If you splurge at one meal, be a little more cautious at the next. Another mistake people make is to set huge goals that are sometimes unattainable. If you commit to not eat ANY holiday foods or to LOSE ten pounds by New Year’s, you are likely setting yourself up for failure. Then you might become discouraged and just give up. My advice is to be realistic. Know that this is a difficult time of the year when it comes to food temptation, and you’re going to be faced with holiday goodies that you’ll want to indulge in a little. There’s nothing wrong with that. Try not to get overwhelmed and let that throw you off track. Stay focused and be realistic with yourself. You can do it! Use this time of year as a personal challenge and better yet to learn how to make those holiday treats the healthy way!
Thank you for this Gina!
What an eye opener : The first mistake people need to avoid is give up completely on your goals, during the holiday season.
Totally true…
absolutely, isn’t that the truth. So many people give up if they have a bad day and YOu can’t do that… You have to just see the next day as a new day and start again!! Glad it helped open your eyes…
I’m also thinking, Christmas and New Year’s Eve are a week apart. 1 cheat meal a week and you’re done! Why think that it has to be a 10 days non-stop binging!!! hahaah 🙂 Anywayz. I’m going to be very reasonnable this week. I have a plan and I just have to follow it. Thanks again!
Claudine, You are right on with your thinking. Having a cheat meal or as I call it “refuel meal” for Christmas and New Years is a great idea. Stick to your regimented plan, knowing the holidays are coming and you will be able to enjoy them. That is a great mini goal and will keep you on track. The holidays are the perfect time to enjoy the good food, eats and quality time with loved ones. Of course no reason to go crazy but do enjoy!! Take it one day at a time… I can’t believe the holidays as so close now.. 9 days..