You’ve probably seen hundreds of diet programs out there, and they all promise the world.
“Add lean muscle fast!”
“Drop X pounds in 14 days.”
“Miraculous results!”
And so on.
We’re all about simple, effective nutrition coaching, so I’ve got some very basic tips for you as summer rolls around and it can be tempting to drink a little more or make food choices that don’t match up with your goals.
First, let’s take some steps to prevent mistakes before you make them.
I want you to think about some choices you’ve made that don’t match your goals. Here’s an example: absentmindedly eating three donuts while working even though you really want to drop 10 lb. before a special event.
For any food-related habits you want to change, try to make the items invisible, unattractive and difficult to get.
Here’s an example:
If you purchase donuts, store them out of sight so you never just see them and reach for them. Definitely don’t put three of them near your laptop.
To make donuts less attractive, don’t purchase your favorites. This might seem odd, but remember we’re taking small steps to break habits, and not buying donuts at all might be a big step. So buy the ones that don’t appeal to you as much to reduce temptation and desire.
Finally, find a way to add some difficulty to the process of snacking. What if you put the donuts in a downstairs freezer and pile some boxes on top of it? You’ll be less inclined to dig the treats up unless you really, really want them.
Remember: invisible, unattractive and difficult to get.
Next, here’s how to grind in habits that support your goals: Make sound choices obvious, attractive and easy.
So let’s say you know that eating more fruits and vegetables would move you closer to your fitness and health goals.
Place fruits and veggies in high-profile locations—like the front of the fridge or a bowl in a prime spot on the counter.
Get produce you really like. If you hate broccoli but love cucumbers, put the latter in your cart and don’t try to choke down stuff you dislike.
Chop everything in advance so it couldn’t be easier to make a healthy choice. Instead of digging in the basement freezer for a donut, you’ll grab a small bowl of chopped strawberries for a big win.
Remember: obvious, attractive and easy.
You can apply this simple structure no matter what your goal is. You can even use it outside the gym. I hope it helps you!
Here’s the rocket fuel you can add: accountability. It’s one thing for me to lay out the plan in an email and another for me to message you and say “did you chop your favorite veggies and put them at the front of the fridge for a snack tomorrow?”
With backup from a coach, you’ll get your habits adjusted at warp speed and start moving toward your goals very quickly.
We’d love to help! If you’d like to talk to us about your nutrition goals, hit “reply” or click here to make an appointment.
-Amanda
