Today, we are going to talk about overcoming the start over mentality that often comes after the holidays. However, it actually starts before the holidays too. I love food and spending time with friends, and I believe that the holidays are a special time of the year. Most people get excited for the holiday season because of all the sweets and treats. It’s a time when we step away from our day-to-day life and enjoy the festivities with our families. But for some, like myself in the past, it can bring anxiety and stress related to food, leading to fear of getting off track and feeling guilty instead of enjoying the season with loved ones.

If you resonate with this, then this episode is for you. I will share my four favorite tips to help you overcome the start over mentality during the holidays. These tips will be especially helpful as we approach the holiday season, which for many starts around October with Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other celebrations.

Tip 1: Do not restrict leading up to the holidays. Restriction only leads to chaos and often results in binge eating. Instead, live your life in moderation. Enjoy the holiday treats but also make healthier choices in other meals. If you track macros, be intentional about planning your indulgences and adjusting your intake accordingly.

Tip 2: Strive for progress, not perfection. Perfection doesn’t exist and striving for it will only lead to disappointment. It’s unrealistic to try to restrict yourself completely during the holidays. Allow yourself to enjoy the festivities and acknowledge that slip-ups may happen. Learn from them and move forward.

Tip 3: Focus on the mental and physical aspects. Combine mindset work with the science of tracking macros. Tracking macros can provide structure and allow you to make informed choices while still enjoying the food you love. It helps you achieve balance and maintain your goals throughout the holiday season.

Tip 4: Plan ahead and be intentional. If you have multiple parties or events, plan your indulgences and make adjustments in other meals to maintain balance. It’s about making conscious choices and being mindful of your overall intake.

Remember, the goal is to have food freedom and make lasting memories with your friends and family during the holidays. By following these tips, you can overcome the start over mentality and enjoy the season without guilt or weight regain.

I hope these tips help you have a joyous and fulfilling holiday season. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or need further support. Let’s make this holiday season a time of celebration and empowerment.