It’s the most wonderful time of the year… who doesn’t love juggling the pressures of doing your job well but also being present when you’re at home, balancing eating well with enjoying the inevitable treats, and fitting in training sessions or just finding time to keep active at this busy time of year.
We’re not about to go all bah humbug though, because former police officer, Gary Carpenter, from our newest member service company, MJM Fitness, is going to help us stay on track with his top tips for finding balance this festive period:
Set boundaries
Clearly separate work from home time to be present in both areas. This is important to ensure others understand the boundaries and avoid placing unnecessary pressure on you.
Plan ahead
Schedule holiday activities and work commitments in advance to manage both effectively. Become a planner!
Communicate
Keep open lines of communication with family and colleagues about your schedule and needs. Don’t be made to feel guilty, this is your time as much as everyone else.
Prioritise self-care
Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge. You know yourself better than anyone else - prioritise what makes you happy during your downtime, whether it's hitting the gym, enjoying a relaxing bath, catching a film, or spending time with friends.
Stay flexible
Be prepared to adapt to changes in your schedule during the busy Christmas period. This might sound contradictory, but it’s important to understand that changes occur. So, don’t let any unforeseen events affect your mood and enjoyment for the festive season.
Enjoy treats mindfully
Christmas is filled with delicious treats, and it’s okay to enjoy them! Allow yourself to enjoy the flavours of festive foods without guilt but balance them with healthy meals throughout the day. Enjoy the treats, but make sure to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and stay hydrated with water.
Incorporate movement into daily activities
The festive period is busy, but you can still stay active. Instead of sitting for long stretches, take short walks after meals or during breaks. If you’re socialising, suggest an active outing like a winter walk or a game of football with the family. These small, consistent activities can add up and help you stay active without disrupting your schedule. If you want to be active, prioritise movement and become the person you strive to be.
Be realistic about your time
Understand that the Christmas season can be overwhelming, and you may not have time for long workouts or strict meal planning every day. Be kind to yourself and accept that some days will be more challenging than others. Focus on maintaining a balance that works for you, rather than aiming for perfection. The point is, don’t overcommit or overpromise yourself. Doing so can make you feel like you're failing.
If you’re looking to kickstart your fitness journey and want to work with a coach who understands the stress and demands you face daily, Gary Carpenter from MYM Fitness would love to hear from you.
He is offering a 20% discount on online services for members of BTP Federation. Find out more here and tick the box at the bottom of the application form below to take advantage of this offer.