It’s that time of year again… The weeks after Halloween are a hard time for everyone.  Between the copious amounts of left over Halloween candy and the looming threat of holiday meals around the corner, it’s easy to let yourself go. This is why you need a plan of action, and lucky for you, I’m here to help.

First and foremost, you absolutely have to get rid of the Halloween candy.  It’s been 3 weeks. It’s time to stop.

If there are some exceptionally fantastic pieces of candy you just can’t get yourself to throw away, then fine.  Keep them.  However, limit yourself to only 7 pieces. Keep them in a spot where you won’t see them all the time, so you’re not tempted.  Instead, put fruit and veggies in plain view.  They can be delicious, too. Save the candy for when you’re having a really bad day, and you need some sugary salvation.

If you still feel guilty about throwing away all of that precious Halloween candy, then here’s an even better idea: Get into the holiday spirit and start giving it away.  Surprise your family and friends with little, heartfelt notes and some pieces of Halloween candy.  You’ll make their day and accomplish your goal of getting rid of your high calorie stash.  A win-win situation.

So you have finally cleansed yourself of the packaged sweets.  Now onto the next mission: the holidays.

Thanksgiving and Christmas are prime face stuffing time.  Honestly, who can resist a golden brown turkey, mashed potatoes drizzled with gravy, perfectly seasoned stuffing, and a homemade apple pie? I know I can’t.

Instead of not eating all day, and then stuffing your face when you get to whatever food-filled party you’re going to, eat a small snack before.  This way you won’t be starving, and you won’t want to inhale everything in sight.  Also, no guilty feelings afterwards.

My last piece of advice, don’t think too much into it. You are expected to eat a lot around the holidays and of course that is ok.  Just don’t go overboard.

Caitlin Wolfarth is a Lifestyles Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.