This time of year it seems that everyone turns into a food pusher.
You know what I'm talking about...
Here, taste these cookies. I got you this tower of chocolate for Christmas. Here's a dish that you have to try...I made it myself!
Unfortunately, the holidays are a time when food pushing is not only accepted, but is expected. Rather than give in, and end up gaining 5-10 pounds of fat this holiday season, arm yourself with these 5 clever ways to stop food pushers in their tracks.
Food Push #1: "Try this new treat I made, you'll love it!"
I'm Stuffed Response: "I wish that I had room right now, but I'm stuffed."
Why being stuffed works: Your delightful food pusher cannot refute your statement about being full. If they persist, then let them know that having one more bite would push you over the brink of being uncomfortably full.
Food Push #2: "I know this dish is your favorite! Hand me your plate."
Stalling Response: "I really can't wait to try some in a little bit."
Why stalling works: You didn't directly turn down the pusher's offer, so they feel that they've won and will likely drop the subject. Later you may decide that you want a small portion of the offered food, or you may decide to skip it, the decision is yours.
Food Push #3: "Take these treats and leftovers home!"
Take a Break from Cooking Response: "Thanks, but I want you to keep the food so that you can take a break from all the cooking you've been doing."
Why saying they'll get a break from cooking works: Every good host wants to send their guests home with something, but given the option they'd really love to have leftovers for themselves. Compliment their cooking and let them know that you think they deserve a break over the next few days, then stick with your clean eating plan.
Food Push #4: "You are obsessed with dieting. Just take a break today."
Thank You For Noticing Response: "Thank you for noticing all of the healthy changes I've been making! It's not easy, but I'm on track with my goals and it's all worth it. Your support means a lot."
Why saying thank you works: True, the dieting comment was probably made passive aggressively, but you are free to take it as a compliment. Seeing you make healthier choices may be intimidating for friends and family, so approach the subject with understanding rather than defensiveness. Your good influence may even rub off!
Food Push #5: "I only make this dish once a year – you MUST eat some!"
I Want to Live Long Response: "Wow, that looks amazing! I'm going to skip it this year so that I can live to see many more wonderful holidays with you."
Why wanting to live long works: When said with good humor, this drives home a serious point. You are eating healthy so that you will be around for many more holidays to come to enjoy with your loved ones. No one can deny the importance of this!
Take control of your eating this holiday season, and don't ever let food pushers decide what you're going to eat. By using the responses above you'll be able to eat fewer calories and will avoid the typical holiday fat gains in order to start the New Year off right!
Remember that exercise is just as important as healthy eating when it comes to achieving your fat loss and fitness goals. During the next few weeks it's more important than ever to stick with a regular, challenging exercise program.
If you aren't already one of my beloved clients here at CrossFit Reach, I'd love nothing more than to get you started on the fitness program that will begin your personal body transformation.
Call or email today robby@crossfitreach.com to get started – I'm looking forward to hearing from you.
Talk soon!
-Robby
