Can’t believe I haven’t told you this…
Lake Garda was AMAZING!
The hotel and staff — wonderful.
The Lake, waterfalls and mountains — so calming.
The old town, flower-covered buildings and cobbled streets — beautiful.
The pizzas, pasta, lemon ice cream, strong Italian coffee, and red wine — unbelievably good!
Everything was rejuvenating. I felt in control, calm in my mind, and good in my body — no negative thought spirals, no guilt, no wishing I’d eaten better.
Sharing this got me thinking it hasn’t always been this way for me. And reminded me how hard healthy eating can be on holiday and at this time of year 🎄.
Work nights out. Catch-ups with family and friends. Christmas markets. Buffets. Mince pies. And mulled wine!
It’s hard not to overindulge — then feel annoyed at yourself, guilty and think, “I have no self-control” — right? Especially when you’re overwhelmed, tired or stressed.
I know you’re tired of the guilt and negative overthinking.
And I know who you want to be: healthy, fit, toned and in control.
So I thought I’d share with you 3 of the best ways I’ve found to stop the cycle of starting again tomorrow.
These aren’t rules — they’re simple, realistic habits that stop the negative thought spirals and mindless eating — so you can finally feel in control.
#1 — Start Your Day Right To Feel Energised
Aim to have a healthy breakfast of whole grains, protein and fruit every morning. You could try overnight oats and Greek Yoghurt topped with berries, chia seeds and cinnamon. Or wholemeal toast with peanut butter and sliced banana — whatever you enjoy most!
This simple habit sets a positive tone for your day, helping you feel energised, focused and confident. Plus, breakfast’s the easiest meal to stay consistent with — thanks to the extra willpower you have first thing.
#2 — Create Boundaries & Enjoy Meals Guilt-Free
Going out for supper? Choose in advance if you’ll have a starter or pudding, rather than both. And if you’ve had a few meals out lately, decide if you’ll have a healthier main. Great options are salmon, chicken or steak. Even just skipping that side of onion rings and peppercorn sauce can make your meal a lot healthier.
I know eating out with family and friends is one of your favourite things to do (mine too!) — so why not try one of these swaps to help you enjoy them without the self-criticism and guilt?
#3 — Eat The Good Stuff First to Feel in Control
If you’re going somewhere you know there’ll be limited healthy options, have a nutritious meal or snack beforehand.
At a buffet? Fill your plate with salad, veg, lean protein (beef, chicken, pork, fish, beans, hummus) and complex carbs (rice, pasta, wholemeal and sourdough bread) first. Then enjoy some treats completely guilt-free.
This way, you can indulge while feeling in control — and proud of the choices you make.
Overindulged or couldn’t resist temptation? I know how easy it is to go from “I’ll be good” to feeling rubbish, eating whatever’s there, and then beating yourself up. So here’s what I now try to do that might help you, too:
Pause and recognise you’re human — it happens to all of us. Then forgive yourself and choose to make your next meal healthier.
Most importantly, please stop the guilt and self-criticism. Both of these can affect your mental, emotional and physical health as much as overindulging.
Yes, my goal’s to be as healthy as possible — because it makes me feel my best. BUT I’m also realistic. Sometimes it’s possible. Sometimes it’s not. And sometimes I’m better than others!
None of this is about perfection. It’s about being mindful. And learning how to create habits that help you look AND feel your best mentally, physically and emotionally.
Try habits that resonate with you, leave those that don’t. And know choosing just one small thing makes a difference, even if you can’t see it right now.
Wish you knew how to create healthy habits that last? You don’t need more motivation — just a simple step-by-step plan that works. So download your free guide below and finally start doing what you say you will.
I know it never feels like it in the moment, but trust me, small steps lead to big changes.
And never forget, you’re capable of so much more than you realise.
Thanks for reading,
Becky x
P.S. In case you’re wondering, we book our holidays through Ashliegh at Hopeful Escapes. Ash takes the time to understand exactly what you’re looking for. And researches everything to ensure you get a relaxing, rejuvenating and joyful holiday from start to finish. Want to learn more about Hopeful Escapes? Click here.