My inbox has been full of little truths lately.
People admitting they’re having trouble sticking with the nutrition and lifestyle goals we set together.
Holiday overwhelm is here, and I can totally relate.
Since Thanksgiving, “No, I haven’t done that yet — I’ve been so busy with the holidays” has become one of the most common lines out of my mouth.
(Which makes it sound like I have a packed social calendar… I don’t. My mind is just very busy 💃.)
So here’s what I’m doing for myself — and what I’m suggesting to the people I work with.
Think of it as an early holiday gift of advice.
🎁 Give yourself permission to focus on just one thing.
Choose one thing to focus on this holiday season, and let everything else be “good enough.”
🚫 Not five goals.
🚫 Not a list of “shoulds.”
Just one thing that genuinely supports your gut health, your mental health, or your overall well-being.
Because one thing done consistently is far more powerful (and way more realistic!) than trying to juggle everything perfectly.
☑️ Here are a few ideas that can make a huge difference for those living with IBD:
A food choice: “I’ll include one gentle, nourishing food at each meal.”
A behavior: “I’ll focus on chewing my food very well.” (This makes a world of difference for those with IBD — and it helps in so many social situations throughout the holidays.)
A pattern: “I’ll aim for structured meals instead of grazing all day.”
A boundary: “I’ll stop saying yes to food just because someone is offering.”
A mindset: “I’ll focus on just one thing.” (Ha. See what I did there?)
For people living with IBD — and those of us who support them — this isn’t about perfection.
It’s about protecting our energy and keeping expectations realistic during a very busy season.
