The holidays are supposed to be fun, cozy, and full of family, friends, and maybe a little indulgence. But for a lot of us, they also bring stress: juggling invites, family dynamics, endless food and drinks, and everyone’s opinions about what you should be eating or doing.
Here’s the thing: struggling during the holidays isn’t about discipline. It’s about social pressure, expectations, and trying to keep everyone else happy while still feeling good yourself. Let’s talk about how to survive it without losing yourself.
When You Don’t Want to Go Out
Not every night has to be a party. Some nights you’re tired, overwhelmed, or want to protect the little routines that keep you grounded and calm. And that’s okay. Saying “Not tonight” doesn’t need a dramatic explanation. Protecting your energy isn’t being antisocial; it’s self-care.
Good friends get it. If they don’t, that’s on them. The question is - are you canceling as avoidance or to protect your peace? Sometimes you need to push yourself a little to go out and let your hair down, and other times you need to listen to your body and stay in if you’re tired. Ultimately only YOU know the answer!
Eating Out Without Stress
Going out to eat doesn’t have to be a battle between “healthy” and “fun.” You can enjoy both!
- Fill your plate with things that make your body feel good, but leave room for that holiday dish you’ve been looking forward to.
- Compromise a little: smaller portions, share plates, balance indulgent meals with lighter ones during the day.
- Ordering differently from your friends doesn’t make a statement, it just means you’re listening to your body.
You can enjoy your meal and the conversation. No guilt required. Indulging here and there is NOT going to ruin the hard work you’ve put in all year!
If You’re Not Drinking, and Everyone Else Is
Alcohol can be the biggest pressure point during the holidays. If you’re not drinking, that’s okay, you don’t need to explain yourself. “I’m good tonight” is enough.
Friends who respect you will support your choice. If someone makes it weird, that usually says more about their comfort level than your fun factor. You’re still social, still included, you’re just choosing what works for you.
Plus, there are lots of great non-alcoholic drinks these days, from sparkling mocktails to alcohol-free beers, that can help you feel included without drinking. If you’re going to someone else’s house, bring some non-alcoholic options with you so you have what you like! You don’t need to get stuck drinking water if you don’t want to!
Some of my favorite pre-made mocktail options? See the Holiday Collection
Dealing With Peer Pressure & Negative Comments
Sometimes, your healthy choices make others uncomfortable. Maybe you’re eating differently, moving more, or sticking to a routine, and suddenly, someone is defensive or dismissive.
- That’s not on you.
- You don’t need to shrink for anyone else’s comfort.
- Keep doing your thing. Your growth is your responsibility, not theirs.
Again, a gentle reminder to ask yourself - are you being restrictive and avoiding certain activities from a place of resistance, or are you simply doing what feels best for YOU? Be truthful with yoursef!
Enjoying the Holidays Without Guilt
It’s okay to indulge. Having dessert, a holiday meal, or a drink doesn’t erase your progress. Your body isn’t that fragile, and your habits aren’t that temporary.
If enjoying yourself fully feels good for your mind and body right now, let it be enough! There’s enough to worry and stress about throughout the year, take this moment to enjoy and be kind to yourself.
Staying Consistent Because It Feels Good
On the other side, some people feel grounded when they stick to parts of their routine. Maybe you sleep better when you skip alcohol, maybe working out helps your mood, maybe you’ve worked hard to build a routine and you like the way it feels.
That’s valid too. Consistency doesn’t mean restriction, it means honoring what supports your well-being. You can stay centered and enjoy your routine whilst still enjoying the holidays.
For example, personally, I know I’ll always feel better doing a morning workout before everyone else gets up - even on vacation - I love it! It’s a little solo time for me to do my routine and then carry on with holiday activities the rest of the day. It is how I feel balanced and good in my mind and body.
Finding a Balance That Actually Works for You
The holidays don’t need to be chaotic or triggering. You’re not failing if you enjoy yourself, and you’re not “too much” if you decide to stay aligned with your habits. You get to choose what feels balanced, whether that’s leaning into the celebrations, keeping your routine steady, or landing somewhere in between.
This season isn’t about “staying skinny,” “staying perfect,” or proving anything. It’s about listening to yourself, staying connected to your wellbeing, and letting go of the noise around you. Ultimately, relax, enjoy, and do YOU!
If you want a full guide, The Holiday Edit has everything you need to stay grounded this season, enjoy movement, nutrition, lifestyle tips, and simple recipes.