If you’ll be hanging around a lot of hors d’oeuvres tables during the holidays, you know it will be an overwhelming exercise in willpower. Faced with chips, dips and generous buffets, it’s hard to resist those high-calorie, high-fat snack foods—especially when you’re celebrating. Don’t despair, though. Read on for healthy tips on how to leave the office party with your hunger satisfied—and your weight-loss plan intact.

1. Avoid an early arrival. When your friends and family aren’t there to keep you company, you’ll spend more time munching while you wait around.
2. Try not to arrive hungry. Eat a sensible meal—or at least a healthy salad—before you attend parties or holiday gatherings.
3. Don’t hover near the food bar. It’s much harder to resist snacks when they’re staring you in the face. Instead—mingle, chat with friends and spend your party time on the dance floor.
4. Use a small, appetizer plate rather than a dinner plate. You can fill it without going overboard on calories, and a full plate is visually satisfying.
5. When you hit the buffet, fill most of your plate with healthy choices like fruit, raw vegetables, turkey cold-cuts, popcorn and a few unsalted nuts. Save only a small space for more fattening options, like queso dip, Chex mix and potato chips.
6. Drink a single glass of water, diet soda or wine with your food. Take time to enjoy your food and drink slowly, so your stomach has time to recognize that it’s getting full.

If you’re helping to plan or host a party, do what you can to contribute healthy snack alternatives. You won’t be the only one watching your diet, and your health-conscious friends will appreciate your efforts!