Back before I dove so deeply into my own health, I felt that busy or indulgent seasons in my life always felt like a circus balancing act -between enjoying what the period had to offer and feeling guilty after partaking. Sentiments like "I really wish I hadn’t eaten that” or “I really shouldn't have strayed from my workout routine" were commonly running through my head.
Can you relate?
The truth is, a lot of us end up “should-ing” ourselves through the holiday season.
Indulge, regret, feel like we need to make up for it somehow. Rinse and repeat.
Allow me to share something I’ve learned:
Owning your decisions can be a much healthier approach.
You could feel like you’re breaking a “rule”
OR
You could simply make a choice to enjoy yourself and move on without guilt.
This may seem a little surprising to you, depending on your previous approach.
Let's call it “mindful indulgence.”
And let's decide, in the moment, to enjoy a treat or take an extra rest day because it’s what you want or what you feel your body or psyche needs, without dwelling on it or regretting it after the moment has passed..
Good news: there's research to validate you!
Allowing for choices you feel good about and then just moving on, rather than beating yourself up, helps you stay on track more effectively over time.
For you, that could look like:
● An extra rest day because your body really needs it
● Indulging on a seasonal treat without promising to “balance it out” later
● Skimping on meal prep one weekend to spend the time out for a special dinner
Of course I encourage you to stick to your habits and plans as much as possible the rest of the time...
And of course, make time for workouts, a reasonable bedtime, and plenty of hydration…
But if you do indulge, try owning the decision and moving on with very little guilt. I think you'll find it's actually better for your long-term habits and goals.
P.S. The beauty of having a coaching program and accountability group is that it helps keep things like this in perspective and gives you something to lean back on when challenges or temptations arise. If you're a woman and want to explore what a supportive group coaching environment might look like for you, check out my Goal Getters 2025 group, starting in a few weeks!
Check out some great deals from brands I love in this footer each week! These are also paid affiliate links and I earn from qualifying purchases, but they will only be items or services I actually believe in. I hope you'll consider (and enjoy!) the suggestions!
There's still time to get (and USE) my FREE "2024 Healthy Holiday Gift Guide" for more than 25 gift and stocking stuffer ideas, with clickable links, all in one place!
And have you grabbed a "Habit Tracking Journal" for everyone on your list yet?
There's still plenty of time!
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