Thanksgiving might be behind us, but the holiday season has just begun. Embrace the season without saying, “Goodbye good food and active lifestyle. See you January 1.”

Most years, come December, I take the attitude that I’ll “take the month off or take it easy,” and then “get back on track for a New Year’s Resolution.” This year is different –  much different. For one, I’m 100% gluten free this year, making cookies and cakes much harder to endlessly indulge in. And for two, come January 1, I’m making goals, not resolutions this year so I won’t be “resolving” the issue of “taking the month off.”

1. Create Goals. You have from today until December 31^st to create a health, fitness or food goal. I created mine back in September when I committed to running the Rock ‘n Roll Las Vegas ½ Marathon on December 5^th. This has kept me working towards a goal through the Thanksgiving Holiday. Whatever will keep you moving and shaking to reach that goal, make it happen! You’ll be so happy when you achieve it mid-season!
2. Choose the Best Foods. Rarely is there another time of the year when the options for high calorie foods are presented in enormous quantities. From the candy to the baked goods and the main courses to appetizers, drinks, desserts, side dishes and more, we are given most anything our hearts desire. But just because it is there does not mean you have to partake in each item. Choose the one(s) that look best to you, indulge and move on. It goes back to my theory that when my body is craving something, I give in – just a little. Otherwise, I’m bound to eat something else (less satisfying) only to turn around and eat the exact thing I wanted in the first place (doubling up on calories). Choose the best, and then forget the rest!
3. Be Nice (Gift for You). Here’s the deal, with all the hustle and the bustle, so many times we forget about ourselves during this time of the year. We are focused on shopping for everyone, baking, decorating and going to event after event. The days become shorter and we forget to eat a healthy meal, get a workout in and stop for 10 minutes to think, breathe and just be. If you commit to remembering yourself as much as you remember others this season, your health will benefit.

Don’t give up on all the great habits you’ve formed this year just because the holidays are here. Create your goals, choose the best foods and be nice to you. Before you know it, January 1, 2011 will be here with you looking and feeling as fabulous as ever!

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