Summer is over, and these next few months can be challenging if you are trying to stay in shape. Let’s face it, it is going to be colder and darker. That is going to make it less enjoyable to get up and go to the gym and workout. Also, there are going to be many temptations with what to eat. What should you do?

First thing is realize that there is always going to be temptation no matter what time of year it is. There is always going to be a reason to cheat on your diet or not go to the gym. This is true for winter as well as summer. There will always be holiday’s, birthday’s, new restaurants to go to etc. And once you realize this, you can see that this time of year is not that different from any other time of year.

Next, don’t be afraid to adjust. You may prefer to run outside while the weather is warm. But now that it is cooling off, you do not have to quit, just run on a tread mill at a gym. Or spend the next few months working on indoor activities.

Finally, not everyday has to be a cheat day. Yes there are many more holidays during this time of year. That is why they call this the holiday season. But you do not have to cheat between the holidays.

The truth is, you do not have to repeat the same behavior that many do year after year. They do not lose the weight they say they are going to lose over the summer, then, in discouragement, say to themselves, “well it’s the holidays, I’ll just get back on it after the new year.” But how often does that work?

Break the cycle and accept the truth that you can be in even better shape by January 2nd than you are now! The holidays season is upon us. What will your decision be?