For the Canadians: How to actually enjoy Thanksgiving (without the “screw it” spiral)

Guest Post - Olivia Oneid

Thanksgiving’s coming and with it, the turkey, stuffing, and that little voice whispering, “screw it, it’s the holidays.”

Let’s be real: everyone’s approach this weekend will look different. Some of you will track, some won’t. Some will train, others will rest. None of it is “right” or “wrong.”

What matters is having intentions going in, not regrets coming out.

Here’s how to set yourself up to enjoy the weekend and feel good heading into Monday:

1️⃣ Go in with a plan, not guilt.
Decide how you want the weekend to look. If you’re indulging, own it. If you’re staying structured, do it intentionally. No autopilot eating, no shame spiral.

Ask yourself:

What kind of weekend do I want to have?
What choices will help me feel proud come Monday?

2️⃣ Keep 1–2 anchor habits.
Hit your steps, eat a high-protein breakfast, drink your water. Small wins keep you grounded.

3️⃣ Choose your favourites.
Eat what you love. Skip what you don’t. Mindful > mindless.

4️⃣ Look for growth, not perfection.
Each holiday is feedback. What worked? What didn’t? Reflect, learn, move forward.

5️⃣ Zoom out.
One meal or one weekend won’t derail your progress, but the “all or nothing” mindset will.

Thanksgiving isn’t a test of willpower. It’s an opportunity to practice balance.

Eat your turkey, move your body, and enjoy the people around you.

→ Need help finding that balance year-round? That’s exactly what we do inside Master Athletic Performance. Click here to learn more about coaching.

Happy Thanksgiving 🦃

Olivia Oneid

Coach, Master Athletic Performance