And The Holidays Begin…

What if instead, we decided to write our resolutions now, before the holidays hit at full force?  Doesn’t it make sense to form a plan of attack so that we are on the offensive instead of constantly trying to play defense by resisting temptation after temptation?

I want to challenge you to sit down today or tomorrow and write down a few things.

1. What are your fitness goals?  Where do you want to see yourself in 3 months?  What steps will you take to get yourself there? (Example: My goal is to run a 5K race in January. I will begin the Couch-to-5K program on Monday)

2.  What are your holiday “must-haves”?  Decide what foods you absolutely don’t want to give up over the holidays and write them down here.  Make a list for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Then make a plan for how you want to savor those things.  (Example: On Halloween, I will eat a fun-sized Butterfinger and a fun-sized pack of Reeses Pieces.  On Thanksgiving, I will have a piece of pumpkin pie with Cool whip on top.  For Christmas, I will make a small plate of my favorite cookies and give the rest away).  Whatever you do, don’t try to resist everything or your will set yourself up for failure.

3.  Make a plan of attack for any parties that you have on your calendar.  If you know that you tend to overindulge at a certain party, eat a healthy meal or snack before you go.  Similarly, make a plan of attack for work if you work in an office with candy jars everywhere.  Keep chewing gum and healthy snacks at your desk to stave off cravings.

4.  Enlist a “health-buddy” to go on this journey with you.  Show each other your lists and keep each other accountable.  Try to find someone who can also be your workout partner.

5.  Learn some healthy alternatives for traditional holiday foods.  The internet is bursting with fresh ideas on holiday recipes.  Get out of your recipe rut!  Make a list of what you find and get cooking.