How to navigate the silly season with health goals

The silly season is officially upon us (how did that happen?!) which means more parties, late nights, social events, and fun! While this should be a time to celebrate and relax, it can also come with a lot of stress and anxiety for those with health and fitness goals. But it doesn’t need to be this way! 

Here are my top tips on navigating the silly season while still being conscious of your goals, and improving your mindset around this time of year!

1. Ditch the all or nothing mentality

A lot of people can use this time to ‘throw in the towel’ and wait to ‘start fresh’ next year. But just because you’ve got some social events planned, doesn’t mean you need to write off your goals completely! Focus on what you CAN control, and remember that something is better than nothing. If you can’t train, hit your steps! If you can’t track your meals, just try to hit your protein! These little things add up, and will put you in a better position both mentally and physically come the new year. 

2. Be realistic

Accept that this might not be the time of year to hit PB’s or stick to your macros 100%, and that’s okay! Instead, just set some smaller, more achievable goals that you can stick to during the holiday season, such as drinking enough water, or moving your body each day. 

3. Spend time at maintenance

For most people, this is not the best time to be entering a dieting phase. Use the holiday period as a chance to spend time at maintenance and focus on nourishing your body, without the pressure of adhering to a deficit. 

4. Reduce your training volume if needed

It’s okay if you can’t get to the gym 5 times per week. If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, remember that it’s okay to cut back on your training! 3 sessions per week is still enough to help you maintain the habit of training and preserve muscle and strength, while also giving you some more down time! 

5. Have fun!

This time only comes around once a year, so don’t forget to enjoy yourself gf! In 10 years time, you won’t be happy that you hit your macros to the gram over Christmas, but you will be happy that you made great memories and enjoyed this time with your friends and family! 

Remember, it’s what you do consistently that matters. Taking your foot off the gas and enjoying a break over Christmas won’t have massive effects on your long-term results, as long as you get back into your regular routine and stay consistent with your habits! 

So don’t overthink it, and enjoy your holiday season bestie!

Bronte xx