Navigating the Holidays: Progress, Challenges, and New Goals
The holidays are a magical time, but they can also be overwhelming—especially when navigating a weight loss journey. For me, November and December were a whirlwind of busyness, family gatherings, and moments of reflection. While I didn’t lose as much weight as I had hoped, I’m proud to say I still made progress.
Celebrating Progress
Since starting this journey, I’ve gone from a size 18 to a size 12—a milestone that feels incredible! My measurements have steadily decreased, and while I’m just 4 pounds away from my original goal weight, I’ve realized it’s time to set a new goal to keep the momentum going.
One thing I’ve learned is that weight loss isn’t just about the scale. Inches lost, healthier habits, and feeling stronger in my body are victories worth celebrating. This journey has taught me to focus on the process, not just the outcome.
The Challenges of Family Gatherings
Visiting family over the holidays brought some unique challenges. Like many families, mine expresses love through food. Within the first hour of being home, I was offered food six times! It’s a gesture of care and connection, but I found myself feeling frustrated and a little overwhelmed.
Questions like “Can you eat that?” and “What can I make that you can have?” were well-meaning but made me feel as though my choices were under a microscope. The truth is, I can eat whatever I choose—I’m just choosing to eat healthy, watch my portions, and avoid sugar. While I know my family’s intentions came from a place of love, it was hard not to feel like I was constantly saying no and risking hurt feelings.
Turning Challenges into Inspiration
Despite the challenges, something amazing happened: I inspired my family to start making healthier choices. Seeing the release of my cookbook, Kristen’s Kitchen Diaries, sparked conversations about nutrition and wellness. They started asking questions about meal prep, recipes, and portion control—not just for me but for themselves.
It’s a powerful reminder that making healthy choices can have a ripple effect on those around us. By staying committed to my goals, I’m not just transforming my own life—I’m encouraging others to take steps toward their own wellness journeys.
Looking Ahead
Now that the holidays are behind me, I’m excited to focus on my new goal. I’ll continue to prioritize water intake, healthy eating, and portion control while finding balance in social situations. I’m also determined to remember that this process isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.
To anyone who has felt the weight of navigating family gatherings or struggled to stay on track during the holidays: You are not alone. There’s a community of people who understand, who have been there, and who are cheering you on.
Let’s celebrate our wins, learn from our challenges, and move forward together with inspiration and positivity.
Gratefully,
Kristen
(GLP-1 user, Altranais Wellness client, and proud author of Kristen’s Kitchen Diaries)
