Playing chess. What does this have to do with meal prepping? Chess is a very strategic game. Elite players plan over 10 steps ahead, creating scenarios in their mind of how opponents will react. They analyze the opponent’s move and use their experience to set themselves up in the best possible position to win. Let’s apply this same principle to meal prepping.
First, visualize what’s going to happen. What do you have going on Monday? Tuesday? Wednesday? Thursday? Friday? Anything on the weekend? Generally speaking, weekend is where all the social events occur, so make sure you plan ahead for these days. Most of us use cellphone calendars, so look at it and create a strategy. “What am I going to eat at my child’s birthday party?” You know there is going to be pizza and ice cream only, so plan ahead by eating beforehand. It’s better to eat at home because you can control and most importantly, know what you are eating. At times when you go to a event, you don’t know what will be served.
Secondly, change your strategy if its not working. If you are winning, then you don’t have to change anything. However, if you are NOT, then something has to change. If you are not losing weight, then you have to change what you eat. Otherwise, you are just going around circles and ending up the same. In chess, you won’t defeat anybody if you do the same move every time. Change doesn’t necessarily have to be drastic, can be subtle; just as long as its heading towards the right direction.
Lastly, don’t wait until the end. We don’t make the best choices when hungry. “I am STARVING. I need to eat something.” Say this a lot when driving? Well, where do you end up driving to? Fast food? Sandwich shop? Potato chips start calling your name? Let’s just say we resort to convenience. Avoid this from happening by having meals prepared.
Ultimately, meal prepping requires work. A LOT of work. However, it’s getting in the habit of doing it that will make it easier. If you visualize what your week is going to be and creating a strategy for it will help avoid situations where you are scrambling for food. Make the necessary step towards change. Remember, one step at a time. Hope you liked this week’s blog. Stay tuned for more next Wed………………………….Kei