It’s your birthday, and this year it feels different in the best way.
Your family is finally, finally on board with your weight-loss journey. They’re supportive, encouraging, even a little protective of your goals. They cheer you on during your walks, remind you how strong you are and today they’re determined to help you celebrate in a way that still feels aligned with your progress.
All week, you’ve been browsing menus from your favorite restaurants like you’re planning a tiny tactical operation. You want the night to feel special but also intentional. And you’ve landed on the perfect choice: a cozy steakhouse with something for everyone, from your salad-loving niece to your pasta-obsessed dad.
You walk in feeling… proud. Because this time, you have a plan: One glass of wine. No appetizer. Split a steak with your sister. One to two tiny, celebration-worthy bites of a shared dessert.
Totally doable. You’ve rehearsed it in your mind all day. You’ve got this. You slide into the booth, the kind that feels like a soft hug from furniture. The server arrives, and you confidently order your glass of wine. You take a slow, intentional sip. Delicious! You feel relaxed, grounded, even a little accomplished. The plan is in motion. Menus close. You and your sister exchange a conspiratorial smile; the shared-steak pact is still solid. The waiter returns, pen in hand. Orders go in smoothly. Everything feels good. Controlled. In charge. Then, just as he tucks the menus under his arm, he pauses and delivers that classic line: “Is that all? Would you like to share a few appetizers for the table? Maybe some sides?” And in your head, one-word blares like a siren:
When moments of “sabotage” pop up (and they will) the key is remembering that your goals are the reason you walked into this celebration with a plan in the first place. Take a slow breath, smile, and reconnect with the version of you who set those intentions long before the temptations appeared. A simple, calm line like, “We’re good for now, thank you,” is all you need. The waiter is simply doing his job by upselling; he doesn’t know you, your goals, or your plan.
Sabotage happens, but it loses its power the moment you choose to stay anchored in your goals rather than the five seconds of pressure happening in front of you. As we enter the holiday season, sabotage may rear its head more often, so set yourself up for success: eat before office parties, check menus ahead of time, know your order before you get there, or offer to bring a dish to gatherings. Stay strong, ignore the noise, and stay true to yourself. You’re the one in control.
