10 Thanksgiving Survival Tips

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13

Every Saturday morning in the WLGW Program, we get together from all over the world to study God’s Word, pray, support one another, encourage one another, and hold each other accountable. It’s an amazing sisterhood.

On a recent call, a few sisters shared that they had some anxiety about overeating and blowing their diet during Thanksgiving. What’s even worse is that some admitted they might not get back on track until months into the new year, if at all!

I remember those days well. I’d gain 8-10 pounds during Christmas, and it would take me until almost Spring to lose it. And so it went year after year.

I’m grateful for learning the biblical reset principles that helped me break that frustrating cycle once and for all. And although I occasionally relapse and fall back into old habits, now it only takes me a day or two to get back on track.

With a bit of planning and preparation, you can also enjoy this season without feeling as though you’ve blown all your hard work in a matter of days.

Put Some of These Tips into Practice

1.  Write out a few memory verses and keep them handy for when you need them.

Choose scriptures that speak to your need—overcoming temptation, gluttony, anger, loneliness, overwhelmed. For example, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1 Cor. 10:13

2.  Fill half of your plate with salad.

Leave the other half of the plate for other foods.

3.  Be prepared.

Spending all day in the kitchen may leave you a little stressed, and you may find comfort in food. Try planning some meals and freezing them.

4.  Bring a dish that you know is low calorie and healthy when invited out.

One example is to substitute mashed cauliflower for mashed potatoes—it’s delicious and nutritious!.

5.  Take the focus off of food.

Make the day more about fellowship and giving thanks.

6.  Set a firm boundary.

Don’t deprive yourself, but set some hard rules such as no bread, no alcohol, no seconds, only one dessert (if any).

7.  Get up from the table once you’re finished eating.

Don’t linger at the table. Socialize in another part of the house.

8.  Share the joy.

Allow your guests and family to take home the leftovers, especially the desserts.

9.  Load up on your vegetables and protein.

Go light on the starches and fried foods.

10.  Get accountable In our WLGW program.

We all plan to connect again next week to make sure we get back on track. Make sure you have accountability.

Bonus tip: Visualize your success!

Prepare your mind in advance for how you are going to handle particular social situations. With prayer and planning, you don’t have to feel stressed about sabotaging your health goals.

If you like any of these ideas, or if you have a strategy that works for you, be sure to share it in the comments section below. I would appreciate hearing from you.

Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving to all of my American friends.

P.S. If you are tired of circling the same mountain over and over and want a Christ-centered approach to lasting weight loss without feeling guilty, deprived, or overwhelmed, be sure to sign up for our video course program right away at cathymorenzie.com.