I know it’s been quite some time since you’ve heard from me. It’s not because I’ve forgotten about you or don’t have a ton of information to share (I love helping you ways to meet your health and weight goals). However, over the past several months, Balance Health and Nutrition Coaching has become extremely busy. While this is great news because I’ve been able to help an amazing amount of people, it resulted in me putting a very important part of my business on the back burner. Why did this happen? I simply didn’t plan to set time aside.
You may wonder why I am sharing this information with you. I’ve chosen to do this because in failing to keep up with my correspondence, I recognize how important it is to plan. It’s a bit puzzling to me that I failed to do this as this is one of the main things I focus on in my sessions with clients. We come up with a plan that sets them up for success. Why? Because frankly, it just works.
As I’m pointing out the importance of planning, I’m hoping you’ll recognize how it CAN set you up for success. Here are a few things I find helpful (and work):
-Pack satisfying snacks when you are on the go to prevent hunger emergencies- My “go-to’s” are: Chomps antibiotic free turkey or beef sticks, a handful of nuts, or IQ bars
-Go to the grocery twice per week- One big shopping trip and one half way through to grab those few perishable items that will allow you to get through the week successfully
-Read restaurant menu’s ahead of time. Decide what you will order and stick to it. This will prevent any rushed decisions that may cause you to order foods that don’t support your goals.
-Have a party, work event, or tailgate to attend and you’re uncertain of what foods will be there? Plan on eating before or bring something to share that contains protein and healthy fats to keep you satisfied so that you are not tempted to reach for non-nutrient dense foods
-Keep staples in your fridge, freezer or pantry. Each of us have preferences in terms of taste and what satisfies us; stock up on these foods. This sets you up for success on those days and nights when you are exhausted and don’t feel like cooking. My favorites are eggs scrambled with veggies or frozen salmon and frozen veggies thrown into the air fryer. Come up with a list of foods that could be your staples and ensure they are on your weekly shopping list
-For a busy work week, think through your breakfast and lunches- prepare some hard-boiled eggs, make 2 shakes at a time, grill a few proteins to throw on salads for lunch, cut up veggies for salads or snacks. Keep it simple to make it sustainable.
-Traveling; by car or plane? Don’t fall prey to airport snacks or fast-food. Pack something that is easy, quick, and that you enjoy.
Planning is key! There is no way around it. I hope whatever you have going on this week you’ll plan ahead and set yourself up for success.
In BALANCE,
Julie
