A festive and fun time for gatherings, cherished traditions and abundance of yummy treats, drinks and hearty meals.
If you love the holidays but also want to maintain a healthy lifestyle and habits, this time of year can prove challenging when faced with ”food pushers”.
These are well-meaning friends and family insisting you indulge in allllll the holiday delights and push back when you try to say “no”.
It’s that awkward moment when you are scrambling to defend your decision to eat veggies instead of another helping of mashed potatoes and stuffing.
And sure, their intentions are good and the holidays come but once a year but you’re trying to avoid the post Thanksgiving food coma and Black Friday hangover.
So….how do you politely (and assertively) get friends and family to understand and respect your choices?How do you turn down generations of traditions without being banished from future family gatherings?
How do you say “No” to Aunt Sally and her prized pumpkin pie? What to do to get that pesky friend off you back when you don’t want another Christmas Ale? Setting boundaries can feel tricky and at times, uncomfortable! You don’t want to hurt feelings or insult loved ones who have spent countless hours preparing cherished traditions! It can be hard to say “No”, so I am here to help you successfully set boundaries this holiday season, so you don’t sacrifice your goals and habits for the sake of pleasing others. In this blog, you are learning 6 simple strategies for setting boundaries and how to master the art of saying “No” when dealing with food pushers so that you can both enjoy the holidays and feel your best!____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
#1. Communicate your goals: Before the festivities kick off, communicate your health and fitness goals to friends and family. Let them know you are making a conscious effort to prioritize your well-being and may need their support in resisting tempting treats. Be vocal!
#2. Be firm but polite: When faced with a food pusher, it is crucial to be firm in your decision when serious about your health and wellness goals. You can absolutely decline items without being confrontational. A simple, “Thank you, but I’m trying to make healthier choices right now” can convey your message without causing unnecessary tension.
#3. Offer alternatives: If possible, suggest alternative options that align with your health goals. For example, if someone insists on dessert, you might say, “I appreciate the offer of cake, but I’d love a cup of herbal tea instead.”
#4. Practice assertiveness: It’s okay to say “No”. This is something that can feel hard for you but remember: you have the right to make choices that align with your well-being. Practice assertiveness by confidently declining without feeling the need to offer elaborate explanations.
#5. Bring your own dish: If you’re attending a gathering, consider bringing a healthy dish you enjoy. This ensures nutritious options are available and allows you to contribute to the festivities in a positive way.
#6. Focus on socializing: Shift the focus from food to socializing by engaging in conversations, participating in games and enjoying the company of friends and family. When the emphasis is on connections rather than indulgence, it becomes easier to navigate food-centric gatherings.
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