New Year Meal Planning Challenge - Prep
In lieu of adopting a New Year's resolution demanding drastic alterations to your diet, exercise routine, or overall health practices, I'm here to guide you toward gradually incorporating a skill that promises sustained nutritional enhancement—Meal Planning! Frankly, prior to 2023, my approach to meal planning lacked structure. We were doubling our grocery expenses, I found myself stressed and burnt out during dinner preparations, and take-out was a frequent crutch. With our budget in check and my transition to 100% remote work, I needed a reliable meal planning system. Let me share – we've saved THOUSANDS by implementing this system. Over the next few weeks, I'll delve into the details, empowering you to craft a personalized system that suits your lifestyle. Plus, I've got an exciting announcement – a free, four-week meal planning challenge awaits, equipped with tips, tricks, and resources to simplify mealtime, alleviate decision fatigue, and save you some hard-earned cash (because, let's face it, grocery bills are soaring). Click here to receive the meal planning emails directly in your inbox! (P.S. If it's past January 7th, 2024, fret not—you'll still receive all the emails!). On the nutritional front, planning more meals and snacks not only introduces variety but also reduces take-out and curbs mindless eating, paving the way for better overall health. Stay tuned for weekly bonus challenges aimed at enhancing your nutritional balance and fortifying your relationship with food – for both you and your family!
I'm thrilled to have you join my email list and the January Meal Planning Challenge! Thanks for wanting to hear more from me. We kick off the challenge on January 7th, the first full week of the year (giving you a week of recovery after the kiddos go back to school!). Every Sunday morning for four weeks, I'll be sending you guides, tips, tricks, and an inside look into my weekly meal plan. Plus, I'm thinking of adding nutrition and movement goals each week—I can't help but overload you with info, but feel free to take what suits you!
My goal with this challenge is to help you start the year right with meal planning (instead of unrealistic goals that typically come with New Years). It sets us up for success with nutrition and eases stress and decision fatigue throughout the week. I know meal planning can be tough, and many of you don't know where to begin.
Here's what you can do to prep for the challenge (I also have a blog post for more clarity):
Take inventory of your fridge, freezer, and pantry.
Toss or donate unused items (even expired ones can be donated!).
Categorize items into fresh/frozen proteins, veggies, fruit, starches/carbs, condiments, spices, leftovers, and more.
Use up items nearing the end of their shelf-life.
Plan meals/snacks with a mix of protein, starch/carb, veggies, and/or fruit.
Organize your kitchen.
Get rid of things you don't use.
Keep essentials close and easy to access.
Ensure you have everything to prep meals for yourself and your toddlers (check my blog posts - here and here - if you want to see what I keep around in my tiny kitchen).
I'll delve into more detail as we approach the challenge, but this is a fantastic starting point!
If you're eager for more and can't wait for the next email (who can blame you?), explore my wealth of resources on my website or over on my Instagram!
Cheers to a fantastic meal planning journey!