Do you know how to meal plan? Or, do you just avoid making one altogether?
They can be so much work, and often no fun even on your most inspired days. So I don’t blame you if you avoid making them. Even though I’ve been meal planning for years now, I still find myself avoiding them sometimes.
The fact is, it requires time, thought, and energy. Which then requires more time, thought, and energy when making meals from said meal plan.
Sigh. You know what I mean, don’t you?
But, I still do it. Every single week. That’s because it saves me money and keeps me eating healthy. We all know how easily pizza finds its way home if you don’t feel like coming up with a dinner idea!
Since I started meal planning, I’ve saved thousands of dollars, hours of my time weekly, and I’ve stayed healthy. Those are some tangible benefits, for sure.
Plus, I’ve mastered the art of meal planning in 30 minutes or less. I’m busy and I can’t spend time each day coming up with meals.
And having a meal plan posted up means my husband and kids can be self-sufficient or help make meals. I say that’s a win-win!
Now I want to teach you how to meal plan like I do, and it’s the same way I teach my clients to meal plan. So stick with me for a few minutes as I break down the simple steps I take to meal plan in 30 minutes or less.
You can also get a FREE copy of my 30 Minute Meal Plan: How To Guide + Resources eBook.
Here are a few meal planning tips to get you started:
1. Use a 3-Day Rotation
Planning for 7 days is a daunting task, plus – it’s way too strict if you need some room to be spontaneous like I do.
And frankly, life happens and sometimes your day doesn’t go as planned.
To save time with your meal plan, create a 3-day menu and rotate it. This leaves you with a 6-day meal plan and an extra day for eating leftovers or ordering in.
And to think, all you had to do was plan three days!
2. Find Cheap Inspiration
It’s hard to find inspiration from a blank meal plan. I know, it’s the worst. Plus, starting from scratch is a huge time waster and your time is valuable.
Instead, flip through your local grocers sale flyers and make a grocery list based on the healthy sale items. Then, see what you already have at home.
Now you’ve got cheap (or free!) inspiration to add meals to your plan that use up those ingredients. Mind blown, right?
3. Love is NOT Blind
Have you ever made a recipe that was amazing, and later tried to remember what it was and just can’t? Yeah, me too.
I’ve learned to keep a file of family favourite recipes handy when meal planning. That way I can add one in each week that requires zero thinking and I know everyone loves.
Okay, in all honesty – I make my kids pick one weekly that they’ll make the family. Ha!
Aim to pick one recipe from your favourites, one seasonal, and one new recipe weekly to add to your meal plan. It helps keep things fresh. I’ve got no shame in my game!
These are just a few steps you can take to meal plan in 30 minutes or less. That’s how easy it can be!
Staying healthy sometimes requires planning, so why not make it as easy as possible? It will also save you time, money, and the daily headache of “what’s for dinner?”.
Want some extra help? Download my free 30 Minute Meal Plan: How-To Guide + Meal Plan ebook.
