Life throws a lot of curve balls!

Be prepared for those curve balls!

Be prepared for those curve balls!

Having a moment of weakness, or finding yourself in a situation where you have few or no ‘good’ choices (ie., dining out while on vacation or eating dinner at a friend’s house) does not have to equate to failure.  It is never too late to get back on track.  Knowing this and having a plan for it can be very freeing.  Planning ahead for these types of scenarios can eliminate concerns as well.

Here are a few tips to help you set yourself up for the greatest amount of success in addressing any of those curve balls life will undoubtedly throw your way-

  • Clean out your cupboards. Get rid of the foods that trigger your cravings or are irresistible to you.  This means give them away or throw them away-you aren’t wasting, you are helping yourself.
  • Shop the perimeter of the store as much as you can.  In case you haven’t noticed, in most stores, the fresh foods and best choices are typically around the outer edge of the store.  The middle of the store usually holds the ‘sweet nothings’ you need to avoid.
  • Don’t shop hungry.  I know, we all know this in our intellect, but we often think we are strong enough to overcome.  Don’t put yourself in that position!  Eat before shopping.
  • Always be prepared.  I almost always have a protein bar, or bag of nuts in my purse, gym bag or car.  Even this little snack can stave off hunger enough to get you through the shopping trip, or past the fast food on the way home,  or the treats in the office lounge- to much better choices.
  • Plan ahead when dining out. If possible, check the menu before you go and make your choices ahead of time.  Don’t look at the dessert menu or the drink list.  Order soup, preferably broth and not cream-based, or a side salad for an appetizer.  Half your entrée immediately and ask the waiter to box the other for you to take home.

As you can see, acknowledging the inevitable and planning ahead are important to remaining on track with your food choices.  Remember that getting off track does not mean failure; it just means you are human and you can adjust and get back on course. Remember, if you need some encouragement, accountability or advice, I am just a comment, message or phone call away!

Until next time, Be well!   Your Bff