Justifying Poor Choices Through the Holidays

Candy, cookies, cakes, and pie, Oh my! Over the holidays it’s so easy to not take responsibility for my self-care. Starting at Halloween and often through New Year’s Day there seems to be a “Yeah but” and “it’s no big deal” attitude that doesn’t support my recovery. Taking care of myself with what I eat and how I exercise seems especially difficult during the holidays. The excuses, rationalizations and justifications are everywhere. This year with COVID the season seemed to start even earlier than usual. My local Sam’s Club had all the decor out in early September. Justification or “yeah but everyone else is doing it” can easily become my mantra.

Yet recovery says today is a new day. We only have today even if we have to break it down to a minute at a time, an hour at a time, and afternoon at a time.

This often leads to a day and then a couple of days. Recovery also says to connect with others, who are like minded and who understand this type of thinking. Recovery says to connect with others to get out of the disease of isolation, shame and humiliation.

When I take the risk and share the truth about my mild misery or terrifying desperation, I’m met with love and understanding beyond my wildest dreams. Whether one is stuck in negative thoughts, destructive behavioral and or medicating behaviors, one does not have to wait until the new year. Anyone can start now. If we can be of any assistance, please reach out to the Relationship Enrichment Center. We’re waiting for your call.

Sheila Maitland, LCMHCS, CSAT