Several of my friends are stressing about entering the holiday season. I get it. When you’re working hard to win the battle for a new body and more active life, all the excess food available is daunting.

But here’s the truth. Between October and Jan last year I lost 32 pounds, and you can keep losing, too. I don’t remember feeling deprived. I do remember being intentional.

Here’s a bit of advice for Thanksgiving from someone whose been there:

• It’s not what you do one day that sabotages weight loss. It’s what you do 90% of the time
• Even on the holidays it doesn’t pay to eat until your stomach hurts
• Don’t deprive yourself of your favorite treats, just take smaller portions
• If you’re using weight loss support, like the Benew products I used, keep using them that day
• Consider taking a walk after enjoying your turkey. If that doesn’t fit the family schedule, make a point to exercise on Wed. and Friday
• Be intentional about how you approach the day. Give yourself freedom to enjoy it without guilt, but don’t totally blow off wisdom.
• Remember the tricks: More salad, less potatoes. If you eat big at lunch, eat less the other meals. Find a way to move.

Let’s face it: Thanksgiving is about the food. While that doesn’t mean you have to take seconds or thirds, you will eat more than you normally do. But one day won’t ruin what you’re trying to accomplish as long as you return to your new good habits on Friday and keep to them! Honestly, last year I think I had pie for breakfast on Friday morning, but I put it into my calorie counter app and kept the rest of the day within my goals.

The biggest Thanksgiving danger is not the day itself. It’s the day after and the day after that. Enjoy your day, but commit to making it only ONE day, not a week of celebrating that turns into continued betrayal of your goals.

And while you’re enjoying all that abundance, take a minute to thank those who provided, starting with the Giver of all good gifts.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Tips for enjoying Thanksgiving without self-sabotage

Tagged: benew, Thanksgiving, tips for holiday weight loss, weight loss, wisdom