Top Tips for Setting and Attaining Healthy Goals During the Holidays

It's a simple fact that in order to know if you are making your holiday goals, you have to define them in a way that can be measured. Be specific about what you plan to do. Write it down, then mark your progress. Avoid setting unrealistic goals. It is better to set several small, attainable goals rather than looking at only the larger picture. If you miss a goal, keep trying.

The most common holiday health goal is related to weight. Generally weight control means a combination of limiting food intake by type and portion size along with increase in physical activity. This can translate into something so simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking farther away so that you walk more. Both of these strategies require leaving a few minutes earlier in order to arrive at the destination on time.

Get Moving and Push Away From the Table

One up side of the holiday season are the parties with increased opportunities to move on the dance floor and burn extra calories. Otherwise, if you already have an exercise regimen, add a few more reps to every session, but be specific as to how many. Write it down and keep to it over the holidays. If you don't have a regular exercise routine, get one. Again, write down the what, when, how and with whom. Keep a journal of what you did - a brag book, if you will. Resist the temptation to skip a scheduled session. Make that promise to yourself to follow through.

The added benefit of increased exercise is stress relief. Look at it logically. There are only 24 hours in a day. If you intend to extend your exercise schedule, you'll need to carve those minutes from some other activity or find ways to combine movement with something else. Download some favorite holiday tunes into your personal player, plug in those earbuds and go for it.

It is also sensible to try to limit caloric intake. Again, set a realistic goal. If you are going to a party, try to limit portion sizes and return trips to the dessert table. Make up for indulgences by "being good" the next day. Healthy cereal for breakfast, soup and salad for lunch. Avoid the homemade goodies that co-workers bring in, except to taste so as not to hurt feelings. Ask for the help of others. Most people will understand if you explain why you need to pass on a tempting offering. You might have a special party outfit that won't fit if you eat every sweet that crosses your path.

Budget Your Stress

Another way of holiday stress relief is to have a budget goal for food purchases and gifts. It is very easy to get carried away by generosity and the holiday spirit. Remember that it really is the thought that counts. With everyone struggling these days, any gift or remembrance, no matter how small, will be appreciated. The very worst holiday hangover is when the bills arrive after New Years. Shop wisely and early. Many stores have brought back the layaway plan. If the item is a must-have that requires payment over time, look for a plan that fits within your budget and doesn't assess fees for late payments or canceling the purchase.

Finally, the best thing you can do for your health this holiday season is to get plenty of rest. Set a time when you will throw off you daily cares. Say a prayer or meditation to quiet your mind. Sleep well knowing that you will have another day to meet those healthy holiday goals.