The holiday season often comes with endless invitations and temptations: “Join us at this party, try this mince pie, have a glass of mulled wine, taste my famous Christmas cake.” And because you don’t want to take advantage of it, you often say yes. Before you know it, you’ve indulged in meals as if it’s your last supper and consumed drinks to keep the festive spirit alive.
What is Festive FOMO?
FOMO, or the “fear of missing out,” is the nagging feeling that others are having a better time than you, which peaks during the holiday season. This is unsurprising—December is filled with nearly 44% more social events than any other month.
However, festive FOMO can be your worst enemy, especially when trying to stay healthy during the holidays. Let’s unpack how it usually manifests and what you can do about it.
The Downside of Festive FOMO
Imagine committing to healthier eating habits during the holidays. You attend a party, and the buffet is overflowing with tempting treats. Your fear of never tasting these indulgent delights again takes over, and suddenly, your survival instincts kick in. Before you know it, you’ve binged on everything in sight.
This fear of missing out stems from our natural tendency to focus on what we might lose rather than the benefits we gain from staying on track. As a result, we give more weight to the pleasure of eating those sugary treats and less to our long-term health and well-being.
But what are you missing out on? At best, it’s a few indulgent desserts or carb-heavy meals. Conversely, these indulgences can lead to energy crashes, poor sleep, weight gain, and negative self-talk about your choices.
Take Back Control of Your Food Choices
The fear of missing out on food has emotional roots—not only for you but also for those hosting the events. It can feel uncomfortable to refuse, especially when you’re rejecting the host’s efforts. But here’s the truth: saying no to that extra serving of sausage rolls doesn’t define your relationship with food or the host.
Here’s how you can regain control this holiday season:
- Have a Plan: Before you go to bed, plan your meals for the next day. This is particularly important during Christmas when treats are everywhere.
- Set Realistic Goals: Instead of dieting, maintain your current weight. This allows you to enjoy yourself without feeling deprived or guilty.
- Portion Control: Watch your portions, especially with high-carb and sugary foods. A little can go a long way.
- Don’t Arrive Hungry: Eat a small, healthy snack with protein and slow-release carbs before attending any event.
- Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Remove family chocolates and snacks to avoid mindless snacking.
Managing Alcohol FOMO
Alcohol can be another challenge during the festive season. If you choose to drink, consider how it aligns with your health goals and overall social schedule. You’ll notice immediate benefits by cutting back, even slightly—better sleep, improved energy, enhanced mood, and positive changes to your waistline.
Here’s how to drink smarter:
- Set Limits: Decide in advance how much you’ll drink.
- Accountability: Let a trusted friend or partner know your limits.
- Stand Your Ground: Don’t let others pressure you—it’s your choice.
- Have an Excuse Ready: A polite “No, thank you” is always acceptable.
Final Thoughts
It’s entirely possible to enjoy the festive season without overindulging. By staying mindful of your choices, you can avoid the January crash diets and start the new year feeling great.
Remember, the absolute joy of the holidays isn’t in the food or drinks you consume but in the memories you make and the connections you nurture. So, this season, let go of the fear of missing out and embrace the freedom of being in control. If you’re sick of feeling bloated, gassy, crampy or going to the loo too much (or too little), book a free 30-minute digestive health mini consultation. You can do that by clicking here.
Happy holidays!
