I like to think of myself as a relatively healthy person; I track my macros, hit the squat rack at least once a week, and pop CLA’s like my life depends on them. But, as soon as November rolls around, I can pretty much drink gravy straight up. Seriously. I have thought about pecan pie at least once every single day since July. And don’t even get me started on mashed potatoes. Still, while I LOVE my festive foods, I hate crash dieting come January, so I’ve come up with some tricks to have my pie and eat it too.

1. Simplify your drink order

Swap out that pumpkin spice latte with whip for a drip coffee with a splash of cream (and a pump of syrup if you’re dying) and you will lose the pudge and save some dough. If this is too extreme for you, just try getting your favorite drink half sweet or in a smaller size with an extra shot of espresso. This works at the bars too- try a vodka soda, gin and tonic, or a light beer instead of your usual vodka cran or IPA. Or you can just cut to the chase and take tequila shots, your call. If it’s not coffee or alc, just stick to water (especially if you chose the tequila option)

2. Eat yo' veggies

I know, I know. Vegetables don't exist on Thanksgiving. Or Friendsgiving. Or in the entire month of November for that matter. Except they do, and they can actually be pretty awesome. So load up your plate with some sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, and maybe even the tiniest serving of spinach salad, and then go for the good stuff. By the time you elbow your way to the mashed potatoes, you won't have room on your plate or in your belly to go overboard. HELLO skinny jeans.

3. Cook at home

Scratch the entire order and just make that food yourself. You will unintentionally eat a much smaller portion, and use way better ingredients. Plus, you can post a pic and show the world how good you are at this whole #adulting thing. Bonus points for cooking festive meals in preparation for the real thing.

4. Get walking

I know, it’s actually below 60 degrees today and waiting 20 minutes for the tram is soooo much more convenient than walking up the hill, but just think all the extra pie you’ll be able to eat now, without having to unbutton your pants.

5. Make sleeping a priority

Beauty sleep is a real thing- sleep deprivation can actually lead to weight gain. So all those nights you spend scrolling Insta until 2am are actually making your dreams of six pack abs less attainable. Ease up on the stalking and hit the pillow because that formal dress will look much better on floor if you’re not wearing Spanx underneath.