My 2021 Holiday Maintenance Plan

Last year, I decided to take a different approach to the insanity that inevitably rolls around starting near the end of November. I was three years into my weight loss journey and the holiday season always brought anxiety and a feeling of holding on for dear life (a.k.a "white knuckling it") until January 1.

It was time for something so crazy in my mind, I wondered if it would work. I chose to focus on maintaining my weight through the new year.

Sounds simple. But, when you've been in losing mode for so long, it's hard to imagine what life is like trying to keep things in balance. But, I was determined to give it a shot.

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I asked myself where I wanted to be at the end of the holiday season, realistically. And then, I followed that up with what needed to happen to get me there. I had to figure out what the bare minimum I was willing to accept on Dec. 31. 

I didn't want to gain a bunch of weight over the holidays. But, I knew a few pounds might be possible due to the baked goodies we make every year. I knew stress and fatigue played a big factor in my eating habits. 

So, I set up ground rules and followed them (most of the time--no one is perfect.) It worked so well I repeated it again May 2021 when I went on vacation to Disney World. 

This year, I'm starting the first full week of November because I'm traveling and when I get back, things get really busy. So, I'll have 8 total weeks of maintenance. 

Here's this year's 2021 Holiday Maintenance Plan. I like to think of it as a gift I give myself: one of sanity and grace! I plan to check in here on the blog and, of course, on social media! So, follow along and, if you're inspired, create your own maintenance plan (whether it's weight, sleep, stress management, time management, etc.) We are in control!