So, how did everyone do the holidays? I am certain that I’m not the only one who fell off the wagon when it comes to workouts and nutrition. If anything, I think I cut loose much more this year than I typically do because instead of visiting family, I went on vacation. I stayed at an all-inclusive resort, meaning I had access to ever-flowing food and drinks.
Did I gain weight? Yes. Did I lose muscle tone? Yes. Did I feel guilty about it? Nope.
You see, I knew very well that I was going on vacation, much like everyone else was well aware that the holidays were approaching. Because I anticipated the food that would be available at the resort and knew that there was a good chance I wouldn’t workout at all, I mentally prepared myself to be okay with whatever decisions I made. I didn’t binge and then hang my head in self-loathing afterward. I, fully aware of the results, enjoyed every bite, every sip, and every relaxation period. I’m not sorry. You see, sometimes you just have to put on your big girl pants and accept the consequences of your choices. I knew that returning to the gym was going to be extra painful when that time came, but it was a price that I was willing to pay. There’s absolutely no reason to feel guilty as long as you know that you’re making a choice.
When you approach these goal-deterring situations as a choice rather than an accident or a slip-up in self-discipline, it’s much easier to forgive yourself because you are still in control. And when you’re in control, you get to decide to get back on track.
It’s pretty liberating to just allow yourself to enjoy life sometimes. Don’t let a dark cloud of guilt follow you around when you want to enjoy food or relaxation. We need these breaks. Your body probably appreciates time to recover, and as far as nutrition goes, well, just get back on track when you’re ready.
