Whether you are traveling for the holidays or for work, sticking to your goals may be more difficult when you are out of your routine. That’s normal and that’s okay!

In these times, you want to adopt flexible thinking and make good decisions, not necessarily perfect ones. Plan for success, even if that’s an adjusted version of success. How you plan and adjust will depend on your goals, and some behaviors will be easier to maintain during travel than others. Continuing your gratitude journal routine every morning may be a slam dunk, while cooking a healthy dinner may not be as feasible. Below are tips for adjusting your goals.

• Shift the time: Look for another time you could fit in your goal-aligned behavior. If an evening walk doesn’t fit into your schedule, maybe a morning one will.
• Shrink the behavior: Along the good, not perfect principle, engage in your healthy behavior but create a reduced, travel-friendly version. If a 30-minute walk is not doable, aim for a 10-minute one.
• Invite others: Ask friends, family, or co-workers to join you for a walk or workout, or other activity.
• Ask questions: Ask your hosts or hotel staff questions. Would your host be okay if you brought a few healthy breakfasts to store in the fridge? Does your hotel room have a fridge and microwave or could you be transferred to a room with one? You may be able to bring healthy snacks or meals with you.

When are you traveling next? Think about how you can adjust your goals around your travel. At the end of the day, it’s not going to be perfect. Plan and choose to make good choices in alignment with your goals as much as you can.

Did you enjoy this article? This information came from the Eat Smart, Move More Holiday Challenge daily tips. Make sure you are registered for the 2023 Holiday Challenge. Visit esmmweighless.com/holidaychallenge to receive weekly newsletters, daily tips, recipes and more. The challenge is FREE and this will be the last year it is offered.