alternative thanksgiving weekend

This time of year can be challenging to even the most conscientious consumer. We are all adults who make our own rules, who walk our walk. However when around family and loved ones you may find yourself in a position to compromise with your Thanksgiving spread and then another display of excess, post-Thanksgiving shopping. Here are some mindful tips to not do the walk of shame if you compromise too much.

• Eat like you are in your own home.  If you are away from home this time of year attempt to eat like you do in your household if the diet you are around is different than what you are used to.  You can always sneak in fresh veggies that are not laden with fat.
• If you do indulge then clean up your act right away.  Go for water, fiber, and clean eating the next meal.  If you enjoy indulging then indulge.  Simply make good food choices in the long-term so you do not feel “guilty” when the weekend is over.
• If your Thanksgiving was not a reflection of your values then take that opportunity to live those values with another meal.  Besides Christmas we have all kinds of ways to celebrate including fictional ones.
• In the rush and adrenaline between Black Friday and Cyber Monday ask if you really need an item or if it supports a company aligned with your values.  You don’t have to part with your hard-earned money just because it seems that is the thing to do after Thanksgiving.
• You don’t have to shop but can take the long weekend as cherished time to spend with your family or more importantly yourself.  If you have kids and get a reprieve from them indulge in something soul-nuturing.
• Get active!  This is a great weekend for a hike, a family trip to a local rec center pool, playing on the Wii Active console as a family, or a game of football outside.  Have fun with it.

A few years ago my husband and I were visiting family and staying in a hotel after a cross-country flight.  Our hotel put us within walking distance of a number of box stores.  Due to the cross-country time change we were wide awake when they were opening for all their deals on Black Friday.  We got up, hopped in our rental and I took my husband to hike among the redwoods instead.  It was his first time seeing those trees and one of my favorite memories I am glad we did not squander for a piece of electronics that would have been obsolete by now.

Above all do you.  If you like to eat a lot and shop then eat a lot and shop.  Just make sure those are your choices.  Everyone has alternatives.  All I want is for my readers to enjoy their weekend – maximize your joy.