Office
parties are a lot of fun, but they're also chock full of temptation! Chips, dips, soda, cake and nuts are all within easy reach and the party is a welcome distraction from workday doldrums. But they certainly don't do our weight-loss efforts any favors. If you feel like birthday parties at the office are a dieting minefield, here are some sneaky ways to avoid temptation:
Go One-Handed
Carry a cup of hot tea or coffee; drinking it will
curb your appetite and you'll have one less free hand to
fill up a plate with. Or, carry something else like files in your dominant hand so you will be a little less likely to pick and nibble.
Avoid Trigger Foods
Avoid allowing yourself even a tiny portion of something you know you tend to
overeat. For me, it's cake. Once I taste that yummy frosting, my resolve is gone. So now I just don't accept a slice -- thinking I'd just "taste" and stop always backfired in the past. (After all, who ever just "tasted" a piece of birthday cake?)
Keep Your Distance
It's too easy to eat mindlessly when food is at your fingertips. No matter how resolved you were before you walked into the party, having treats within reach is daunting in the extreme. Stand far away from the food table and spend your time talking to others instead of drinking or eating.
Whip Up a Diet-Friendly Treat
If you know your office's typical party fare isn't exactly calorie-conscious, volunteer to bring something healthy to share. Other folks who are also watching their waistlines will be thrilled at having a healthier option. Or, suggest that you take a vote and find out if honorees would prefer non-food treats like flowers, a gift card or an edible fruit bouquet in lieu of a party.
Pare Down the Parties
Does it seem like there is a calorie-laden celebration practically every other day? Suggest birthdays be celebrated with a group party just once a month. And it may not just be calories you'd save -- your boss just might be glad you came up with a way to save on the bottom line, too.
Just Say No
If you're having one of those days when you seem to eat everything in sight, you may feel that just need to avoid the situation entirely. Stick to your guns and tell your coworkers that you will not be participating in this particular party. Don't feel bad for refusing -- no one has the right to make you feel guilty for not wanting to take part.
