The Holiday Myth: Why Balance Doesn’t Mean Perfection

Holiday Balance

The Holiday Myth: Why Balance Doesn’t Mean Perfection

Every holiday season, we hear the same message: “Find balance.”But somewhere along the way, “balance” started sounding like an impossible equation — one cookie means one extra mile, one party means skipping breakfast, one “off day” means starting over Monday.

Let’s be real: that’s not balance. That’s burnout in disguise.

Balance Is Awareness, Not Restriction

True balance isn’t about splitting your plate perfectly or earning your indulgences — it’s about awareness and intention.When you’re mindful of what you’re doing, eating, and feeling, you’re already balancing.

• You can have the pie — just have it because you want it, not because it’s there.

• You can skip a workout — just choose movement the next day that makes your body feel good.

• You can enjoy your favorite holiday meal — just pay attention to portions and savor each bite.

That’s the kind of balance that lasts. It’s flexible, forgiving, and rooted in awareness rather than rules.

You’re Not Alone in the Struggle

Studies show that the average person gains 8–10 pounds during the holiday season — not because of one big meal, but because of weeks of small, mindless choices.And here’s the kicker: most people don’t lose it after the holidays.

If you’re reading this and thinking, “That’s me every year,” you’re not alone. But you can be in the minority — the group that stays aware, makes mindful decisions, and treats this time of year as a chance to strengthen, not sabotage, your health.

The Power of 13: Your Steady Anchor

When life feels chaotic, go back to the basics — The Power of 13.You don’t need to do all 13 perfectly. Pick a few that keep you grounded through the holidays:

1. Track your food and your feelings — awareness keeps you honest.

2. Move 30 minutes a day — walking the mall counts!

3. Double your veggies — fill your plate with color first.

4. Limit white foods — sugar, flour, salt, and pasta sneak in everywhere.

5. Pause and be mindful every day — one breath can reset your entire mindset.

Small consistent actions beat big seasonal resets every time.

Tips to Redefine Balance This Holiday Season

• Start each day with intention. Ask, “What’s one thing I can do for my health today?”

• Stay hydrated. Thirst often feels like hunger, and dehydration adds fatigue.

• Eat before events. A small protein snack keeps you from arriving starving.

• Keep movement simple. Walk after dinner, dance while cooking, or stretch before bed.

• Choose treats that are worth it. Don’t waste calories on food you don’t love.

• Sleep like it matters — because it does. Lack of sleep increases cravings and lowers willpower.

• Practice gratitude. Gratitude grounds you in the moment and reduces emotional eating.

Progress, Not Perfection

You’re not trying to win the holidays — you’re trying to get through them well.That means enjoying, not overdoing. Choosing awareness over guilt.And remembering that one cookie doesn’t define your progress — what you do after does.

💜 Ready to start the new year with real balance?Join one of my Always On Your Side Coaching support groups or schedule a 1:1 session in January.Let’s create your version of healthy — one that feels as good as it looks.👉 Visit AlwaysOnYourSideCoaching.com to get started.

I am always on your side,

Coach Paris

Coach Paris 💜💚💜💚