If You Fail to Plan, You Plan to Fail.

As I mentioned yesterday, I am committed to bringing you DAILY inspiration. As today is nearing an end and I am FINALLY here to discuss goals, I am reminded of the most important thing when setting a goal – to have a PLAN!

You see, just like my day today, life can be busy, hectic and sometimes unexpected. When you have established your goal and broken it down into small attainable pieces with a plan that supports your success, you are much more likely to achieve your goals AND be able to withstand life’s curveballs.

My day began with the Week One fitness testing for the new session at Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping. A new batch of members came in with an energy and excitement that was contagious (another reason that point #2 below is so important). It took me back to the feelings I had 12 weeks ago when I began at FXB and got me amped for this next step in my journey. Immediately after testing, my husband and I went to a brunch with my cousin and then, straight to a wedding.

As I am finally returning home and posting much later than planned, I am reminded of several things:

1.       Make a plan and write it down. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. This isn’t just a “feel good” concept that you hear at work seminars – it is the truth. Especially with nutrition, you must plan or else you may have a hiccup in your schedule that leaves you hungry and with few healthy options.             
A few tips for successful meal planning:

-          Decide when you will grocery shop. I typically go 1-2 times a week -  once at the start of the week for a majority of the week’s items, and again for additional fresh produce or specialty items.

-          Prepare foods ahead. Depending on your schedule and personality, this is done best one time a week in a big sha-bang or the evening before, either way get it done. Grill up a large batch of chicken, cut your vegetables, transfer foods from large containers into portion controlled sizes – whatever you can do to foster your success do it!

-          Keep a food journal. I am old school and use pen/paper, but there are great apps such as my fitness pal. Now I know you are wondering what journaling has to do with planning. For me, I make my plan in my food journal the night before so that I can use it as a guide throughout the day. This eliminates those impulse decisions that can plague the best of us when temptation comes knocking.
 

2.       Surround yourself with likeminded people( and be patient with those who aren’t). Our brunch today was so refreshing because our hosts eat healthy as well, and were willing to accommodate my needs and preferences. This, of course, is ideal, but not always a reality. I understand. But remember, you are responsible for YOU. Don’t be afraid to speak up and tell others what you are doing and what you need.  Particularly, if you are someone who has chronically struggled with your weight, you probably tend to put others before yourself (trust me – this was me). While this may make you feel good in the moment, it may not be the best for your waistline. So, know that you can best love others when you first love yourself. Besides, you might just be the one that sets an example for THEM by make the smart choices.

3.       Be ready for the unexpected. Today, I did not expect to run from one activity to the other, and when your nutrition plan consists of six meals a day, that can be a struggle when you’re not prepared. It’s time to be a boy scout,  so pack up and stock up. Keep a package of nuts in your car and at work. If you are in a bind, a handful (NOT the whole can) of almonds are better than hitting the vending machine or drive-thru. Throw an apple or orange in your bag at the start of the day and keep protein powder or protein drinks available. Remember, a combination of healthy carbs and lean protein are best, so find your favorites and plan ahead. Please, please do not lie to yourself and think that fast food is faster than running into the grocery store. Sure, it requires you to get out of your car, but hey at least it’ll burn more calories than sitting in your car.

Tomorrow I will talk more specifically about nutrition and share some of my favorite items that are both nutritious AND satisfying.

I am here with you taking each step and facing the same struggles as you. I am doing it and YOU CAN TOO! Make it a Level 10 day!