Socializing Without Putting on Pounds

Let’s face it. We’re social creatures. We love getting together with family and friends. If we’re dieting, though, we feel as if we can’t go out without breaking all the rules, since where people are, you’ll find food.

Today, we’ll share some coping methods to use anytime you’re socializing where food is present. After reading this article, you’ll be able to attend holidays, reunions, birthday pizza parties, grill with your friends, attend ballgames, and much more. . .guilt-free.

LOSING WEIGHT GUILT-FREE, MOVES YOU FROM DIETING

TO A LIFE STYLE CHANGE!

One thing to consider is to plan ahead. Planning  activities comes easily, but we don’t consider planning our meals at this events. . .probably because we’re trying to remember ball gloves, uniforms, tickets, presents, cakes, lawn chairs, and more. Before heading out on your next weekend outings or activities, try implementing some of the following ideas into your weekend plans.

1. Make and take your own food.

– This works packing for travelling on the road and gives opportunity for a pleasurable family picnic.

– Contribute your own low-calorie dish at potlucks. Fix two if time allows.

– Carry your own snacks to ballgames and other places of temptation.

– Take sugar-free soda or sparkling water wherever you go

2. Stay out of the kitchen.

– Be helpful – setting the table, running errands, clean-up, watching the kids. . .anything not involving food.

– Appoint yourself the activity director. Find games and activities for children or the whole family. Coordinating such events as hide-n-seek, kickball, or board games will keep your mind off of the food. The internet is full of fantastic ideas.

TRICK: When the smell of food tempts, get lost – go for a stroll or a drive

3. Choosing the right food when celebrating.

– Choosing vegetables, whole grains, and grilled over fried, wins every time.

– When grilling, know overeating comes naturally so eat less for your other meals.

– Spend your calories wisely by avoiding the munchies and store-bought foods. Instead, choose only the foods celebrating the occasion.

– Choose smaller portions than normal at potlucks and Thanksgiving so you can taste everyone’s favorites.

– Avoid alcohol that flows so freely at most gatherings.

TRICK: If there’s too many choices tugging at you, or someone in particular, see if you can take home a sample to eat later. Celebrating last longer this way.

4. Get plenty of rest

–  Sleep isn’t the first thing you think of when dieting, but when we don’t get enough sleep, you lose your willpower and determination.

– Obesity experts believe too little sleep contributes to weight gain. Less sleep equals more pounds. Wonder if that’s due to the munchies? Anyway, try turning in early one evening or sleeping in late the next morning, especially after a hard week of work.

5. Give yourself grace.

– Remember, eating extra calories for one meal won’t add weight. Not following your diet for one day isn’t going to make a difference in the long run. Give yourself grace.

– If your weekend is too hectic or too packed, don’t stress over losing weight. Focus on maintaining instead. Too high of expectations leads to failure. You actually have permission to lower your standards when overwhelmed.

TRICK: Throw in hiking, biking, croquet, horseshoes, frisbee with the dog, or run along a beach. Burn 500 calories, and earn a piece of pie.Yum!

These ideas might be simple, but can help us overcome quitting our diet. We must live, and these tips can go a long way. Let’s learn to be more intentional. God doesn’t want us to be gluttons. Ask Him to give you strength when attending social gatherings.

Let’s Talk. What tip surprised you the most? Which one do you think you might try? Do you have any other suggestions to share?

Thanks again for subscribing to my blog, and sharing its contents with your friends. Come back next week as we talk about. . .you guessed it, love. Blessings.

© 2019, Jena Fellers. All rights reserved.