Christmas Survival Guide

Christmas is a time for joy, food, drinks, and family. Although it’s a 1- to 2-day holiday, many of us end up overindulging throughout the entire month! So, how can you stay on track with so many temptations, especially when everyone around you seems to be derailing?

Staying balanced during the holidays not only gives you a healthier start to the new year but also helps you stay focused and ahead in your business.

Here are 10 tips to help you stay on track this holiday season:

1. Anticipate indulgences

You already know what desserts, cheeses, and other temptations will be on the table.

Plan ahead! Decide what you truly want to enjoy and what you can skip. Be mindful and make intentional, balanced choices. 

2. Self-monitor your diet

You don’t need to obsess over it. Simply noting or photographing the food you eat can help regulate energy intake.

Before bedtime, take note of any “dispensable” foods you consumed that day. The goal is to reflect and make better choices the next day. 

3. Monitor your weight weekly

Track your weight weekly. This can help you stay on track without unnecessary anxiety.

Remember, small fluctuations are normal, especially when consuming processed foods high in salt—these lead to water retention and temporary weight gain. Don’t worry—this extra weight will go back to normal once you return to your regular eating habits.

4. Limit alcohol intake

Ideally, minimize alcohol consumption.

Save it for truly special occasions where it’s meaningful—like a toast, pairing it with a special meal, or sharing that small tradition with a family member you haven’t seen in a while. 

5. Stay active

Use your holiday free time to stay active.

A simple 30-minute daily walk can help keep things under control while boosting your mood.

Take the opportunity to explore new activities with your family - play padel, go jogging, or try a group fitness class together. 

6. Avoid nibbling

Nibbling can be a hidden danger.

Five minutes chatting by the starter table, and you’ve unknowingly eaten the equivalent of a full meal!

It’s easy to underestimate those little bites of cheese, crackers, cured meats, olives, and nuts. Be mindful and step away when needed. 

7. Maintain your usual diet

Don’t let the Christmas season turn every meal into a free-for-all. Even if you have several events in one week, prioritize high-quality, nutritious meals whenever possible.

There are typically 3–5 meals a day. If you indulge in one meal, you’ll recover easily. But if every meal becomes excessive, it’ll be much harder to bounce back.

8. Avoid extreme restrictions

Avoid “all-or-nothing” habits like overeating at dinner and then skipping breakfast the next day.

Stick to regular, balanced meals without guilt. It may feel counterintuitive, but skipping meals can make you more susceptible to temptation later.

9. Prioritize main meals

Ensure your lunch and dinner are balanced with good-quality protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.

Even if the meal is richer than usual, maintaining a healthy structure will keep you on track.

10. Snack wisely

If you feel the need to snack, choose light, nutritious options like fruit, yogurt, or nuts* instead of leftovers, desserts, white bread, and crackers.

*Be especially mindful about the quantities—nuts are high in fat and can add a lot of calories with small portions.

Final Thoughts

Enjoy every moment of the holiday season without dreading meal times. Be mindful, reflect on your choices, and keep meals peaceful, joyful, and guilt-free.

If you’d like personalized support to help you navigate these challenges, book your free strategy call and get ahead for the new year!

Happy holidays!