Failure to plan is planning to fail. One of my middle school teachers always said this and it’s something that has really stuck with me through the years and it is especially true when it comes to making healthy food choices when you live a busy life.

One of the easiest ways to easily make changes when you’re on the go is go back to what you know from your elementary days- packing! Go back to the basics and stop eating out for lunch -take a lunch box with you! This can be challenging if you’re on the go like me, but if you plan ahead you’ll not only save money, but you’ll be able to better control what goes into your body and stay on track to getting to your goals

Cook Meals Ahead

Prepping your meals in advanced makes it easier to grab and go for lunch during the week. Proportioning out 5 meals makes things easier during the week. Some of my favorite things to make in advance are turkey chili, chicken with salads, or crock pot chicken.

Effortless Meals

It’s always a good idea to have a few effortless meals up your sleeve if you get in a rut and don’t have a meal prepped and ready to go. Easy quick meals like tuna wraps, lean turkey wraps, Greek yogurt and oatmeal, and protein shakes make easy quick meals for lunch when you’re more pressed for time. They take minimal effort to prepare and can even be picked up from a quick stop at the grocery store.

Prepackaged Items

Having prepackaged items are great to have and pack with your for snacks. They save you time, but are also better for you than eating food from the drive thru. Some good grab-and-gos are: greek yogurt, ready to drink protein, protein bars, apple sauce, or cheese sticks. Chopping up fruits and veggies is also a great option as well!

Low Calorie Beverages, Snacks, and Caffeine 

When you’re busy you’re bound to get thirsty! It’s a good idea to carry a water bottle you can refill. If you want something a little less boring, toss a few low calorie flavor drink packets in your bag as well.

You also may need a snack to tide you over between meals. Here are a few great options: granola bars, beef jerky, and protein powder.

If you’re anything like me you cannot live without coffee. Prevent yourself from drinking 200-300 calories on a latte by having a system ready for you when you need that 3 o’clock pick me up. Get get a small Kurieg or coffee pot to use at work or keep low calorie iced coffee ready to deploy (yes it’s that serious).

With these tips you’ll be crushing your goals and nothing will get in the way of having the body of your dreams.. not even 3 soccer practices, the washing machine that’s still broke, your 9-5, and fido! You’ve got this!