Here we go. Again. Much of the world is heading towards that time of year when life is dominated by travel, holidays, parties, religious observations, family, and, of course, food. So much food. Lots of folks embrace and enjoy the break from our daily lives. Many families enjoy getting together, catching up, and re-enacting generational traditions. Afterwards, everyone returns to their respective homes and non-holiday routines. No harm, no foul.

Then there are those with years of experience where the food part dominates the rest. And the food, while being delish and nostalgic for a moment, can find us where we've been so many times. That is, we're in January as full of regret as full of warm memories. It can seem impossible to pass on the cornbread stuffing, fancy chocolates, pies, cakes, cupcakes decorated like reindeer, and double helpings of it all.

Ugh. January. It is as relentless as the tides. We can dose ourselves with foods that we know in our hearts do not serve us well. We can excuse the poor decision-making on so many things. And if the consequences of those decisions are a fair balance to the very brief time of the enjoyment, the fleeting taste, then so be it. No judgment. For me, and for many of us, there is a metaphorical arm-wrestling bout between our wants and our other wants ("I want this chocolate Santa, and I also want to be stronger than wanting a chocolate Santa"). As with all battles of will within one person, neither wins. It always feels like both sides lose. But it needn't be like this. One side can win, one can be the stronger. Our skirmishes with ourselves can result in a true victory: victory over our thoughts. Our thoughts don't define us. Not even all our actions define us. So let's enter this next food fest season determined to actively define who we are in deciding what works for us, what doesn't, and who's in charge.

Food is not the boss of us, no matter the season or the reason. Let's claim our power. And let’s greet January 2nd feeling better about ourselves than all those other January 2nds. 💪 🎉🥳

Disclaimer: I’m not a medical doctor, researcher, or Ph.D., but instead, I’ve been fortunate to have had the time and resources to research the ketogenic diet, also known as LCHF (low carb/high fat). The information I share is based solely on my understanding of that research. We are all responsible for our own choices, including what we put in our mouths, and there’s no substitute for each of us checking things out ourselves. And I’m not a medical professional in any way. Go Keto With Casey is not a medical site. “Duh,” you might say. But best to make it clear to all. I welcome questions, comments, and even civil criticism. I’m still learning. So, if you have something to add, go for it. Links in this post and all others may direct you to affiliate links, where I will receive a small amount of the purchase price of any items you buy through those links. Thanks!