Thanksgiving: Gratitude, Growth, and Staying Sane (and On Track) During the Holidays

Every year around Thanksgiving, I find myself reflecting on where I used to be

Not just last year, but two years ago, five years ago, ten years ago.

And honestly? It's wild!!

We get so hyper-focused on what's happening right now; the chaos, the to-do lists, the family group chats blowing up with “Who's bringing what?”... that we forget to look back at how far we’ve actually come.

And man… have we come far.

But we rarely stop long enough to notice.

We're too busy trying to perfect the meal, find an outfit that doesn’t make us look like we sprinted through Costco at 8 a.m., coordinate three different family gatherings, and somehow still maintain our sanity.

It’s overwhelming.

It’s anxiety-inducing.

It’s… the holidays.

And listen... pot, kettle, black. I am right there with you!!

I'm being pulled in 15 different directions this week alone. But when I sit back, breathe for two seconds, and actually think about it?

I’m grateful.

Grateful that I have people who want me around.

Grateful that I’m not who I was a year ago.

Or two years ago.

Or ten.

Grateful that life looks different now: better, healthier, more grounded, more aligned.

And I want you to feel that too.

But the real reason I wanted to write this post?

To talk about THANKSGIVING MODERATION.

Because while gratitude is beautiful and grounding and necessary… so is not leaving Thanksgiving feeling like you need to be rolled out the door like Violet Beauregarde from Willy Wonka

And if you’re like me... with multiple Thanksgivings (dad’s side, husband’s side, my side), then the moderation piece becomes even more important.

You guys know I always preach about asking yourself: Is it a special occasion or a social occasion?

Thanksgiving is special.

Your third Thanksgiving in the same week… maybe a little more “social.”

And that’s where we get ourselves into trouble.

So here are my tried-and-true holiday strategies to help you stay on track while still enjoying the foods you love... without the guilt, without the anxiety, and without unbuttoning your pants at the dinner table.

1. Prioritize Protein First

Turkey is chef’s kiss when it comes to lean protein.

So pile that on first.

Make it the star of your plate, and start eating that before anything else.

Protein keeps you full, stabilizes your cravings, and prevents you from wandering back for seconds out of pure hunger.

2. Taste Test With Intention: The Spoonful Rule

I take one small spoonful of each dish that looks delicious... and that’s it.

Mashed potatoes? Spoonful.

Green bean casserole? Spoonful.

Stuffing? Spoonful.

These dishes are calorie-dense, and while they’re absolutely worth tasting, we don’t need mounds of them. The goal is satisfaction, not food coma.

3. The One-Plate Rule

One plate. ONE.

Not one leaning-tower-of-Pisa plate. Not one plate followed by a “tiny little scoop” plate. One balanced, intentional plate focused on:

• protein

• veggies

• spoonful samples of the calorie-dense sides you love

Skip the dry buns.

You aren’t missing anything.

Respectfully.

If you still feel hungry (which usually means you’re bored or food-fascinated), grab some water, go for a walk, or take a breather before making another decision.

4. Choose Your Dessert Holiday Wisely

If you have multiple Thanksgivings, pick ONE to enjoy dessert at.

Not all three.

I know, I know... but trust me.

Even then, dessert doesn’t need to be half a pie.

A small slice is plenty. And hey, Sam (my brother), you do not need half a can of whipped cream on top.

I repeat: you do not need half a can.

Mindfulness, my friends.

5. Pre-Game With Protein or Bring Your Own Food (Zero Shame)

If Thanksgiving dinner is late in the day, drink a protein shake beforehand. Going in ravenous is a recipe for overeating.

And listen: if you need to bring your own food to stay aligned with your goals?

DO IT.

I’ve been there.

It is not weird.

It is not rude.

It is not embarrassing.

It is taking care of YOU.

6. Get in Some Movement Before the Meal

A morning workout or even a brisk walk can set your mindset for the entire day. It makes you feel accomplished, grounded, and intentional before a big meal. It also helps with digestion and overall energy, plus it puts you in a better headspace to make mindful choices!

7. Remember: It’s One Day, Not the Whole Season

One meal does not ruin progress.

What does derail progress?

Using Thanksgiving as an excuse to eat like that for the next six weeks.

Enjoy your day. Then get right back to your normal routine tomorrow.

A Final Note... From Me to You

Thanksgiving is a time to slow down.

To breathe.

To reflect on the chapters we’ve lived and the ones we’re writing now.

A year ago, I was in a completely different place.

Two years ago, even more so.

Ten years ago, I couldn’t have pictured the life I love today... the strength, the confidence, the business, the people, the purpose.

So while the holidays might feel hectic and overwhelming, try to pull back for a moment and really look at your life…and see how far you’ve come.

You’re doing better than you think.

You’re growing more than you realize. And you deserve to enjoy a holiday without guilt, shame, or stress.

If you ever need tips, guidance, or just someone to talk nutrition strategy with, I’m right here!!

Happy Thanksgiving, YF fam.🖤🦃✨