Thanksgiving Day: The 80/20 Principle

1. Food and Indulgence:

80% Mindful Eating: Enjoy the traditional dishes mindfully. For example, fill most of your plate with healthier options like roasted vegetables, turkey, and salad. Savor each bite and eat slowly.

20% Indulgence: Reserve a smaller portion of your plate for indulgent items like stuffing, cranberry sauce, or that creamy casserole. Enjoy a slice of pumpkin pie or your favorite dessert without guilt.

Example: You could have a plate that’s mostly filled with lean turkey, green beans, and a fresh salad, but also includes a small serving of mashed potatoes and gravy, topped off with a slice of pie for dessert.

2. Emotional and Spiritual Balance:

80% Presence and Gratitude: Spend the majority of your day engaged in meaningful conversations, reflecting on what you’re thankful for, and being fully present with your loved ones.

20% Personal Time: Take some time for yourself to meditate, read, or simply relax in a quiet space to recharge.

Example: Engage with your family during the meal and partake in gratitude sharing, but also spend a quiet moment alone in the morning or before bed to reflect personally.

3. Social Balance:

80% Family and Community Engagement: Actively participate in family traditions, help with cooking, and enjoy group activities.

20% Setting Boundaries: Politely excuse yourself from conversations or situations that feel overwhelming or stressful.

Example: Help out in the kitchen and play games with the family, but if the environment becomes too hectic, step out for a brief walk or a moment of solitude.

4. Physical Activity:

80% Relaxation: Allow yourself to relax and enjoy the day without stressing over your fitness routine.

20% Light Activity: Incorporate light physical activities like a post-dinner walk, playing catch with kids, or a gentle morning yoga session.

Example: Instead of a rigorous workout, opt for a family walk in the afternoon or a casual game of backyard football.

Embracing Flexibility: The Freedom to Choose Your Path

As we apply the 80/20 principle to our Thanksgiving Day, it's crucial to remember the power of choice — the freedom to take any exit off the highway of life whenever we feel the need. This philosophy is not just about planning; it's about allowing ourselves the flexibility to change our minds, to adapt to the moment, and to listen to our needs and desires.

Whether it's deciding to indulge a bit more in your favorite dish, opting out of a family game for some quiet time, or even changing up your planned activities based on how you feel, remember that these choices are yours to make. Thanksgiving, much like life, is an ever-changing journey, not a fixed destination. Each moment offers a new opportunity to assess what will bring you the most joy, satisfaction, and balance.

So, as you navigate this Thanksgiving, give yourself permission to make choices that resonate with you, even if that means changing your plans last minute. Trust in your ability to know what's best for you at any given moment. After all, the beauty of the 80/20 principle lies in its flexibility and the empowering realization that you are in control of your journey, capable of choosing whichever path feels right.

In embracing this mindset, we not only make our Thanksgiving more enjoyable but also enrich our daily lives with a balanced and adaptable approach to wellness and happiness.

How will you exercise your freedom of choice this Thanksgiving? What exits might you take on the highway of your holiday journey? Share your thoughts, and let's inspire each other to embrace the joy of living flexibly and freely.