The Modified Plan

This is not my first time doing the Sqware Meals program. I have found what works and does not work for me. Though I continue to challenge myself, I know what I can commit to. 

For this program, I have a hard time sticking to the meal plan and trying the recipes. I plan on trying a few of the recipes in the upcoming weeks, as I have heard good reviews. I have a number of excuses as to why I don't do the recipes, none of them that good, but I'll work towards it. 

I also don't log my meals anymore. I have tracked my food enough in the past to know about where I am in terms of calories. I'd always recommend logging and counting your macros until you learn what portions are correct and of what balance. 

My guide is the 'YES' food list. I went through the list and highlighted the food items I like and/or want to try. I review the 'NO' food list, although I am already aware of what it contains. No coffee (thankfully I have minimized my intake in the past few weeks already). This can be a big one for people, so I recommend that if this is your first time around on this program that you start a week early with removing coffee so that it is not such a shocker. This can be especially hard to cope with when you are removing other foods from your diet that your body is used to. 

I load my veggies and fruit in every meal. The program suggests 9 servings, so I try to double up on my veggies & fruits for each meal and use them for snacks as well. It is much easier to add then to subtract. 

And....I always keep almonds on hand. They are my go to when I need something to munch on. Super satisfying and filling. 

The couple days of the plan, I get in routine. By the end of the week, I make sure my water is where it should be. Once I feel like I am in a good place I introduce an easy workout routine (to get harder over time).

The trick I found is to work with yourself and not against yourself. By forcing yourself to stick to a strick schedule and plan, you potentially set yourself for failure. Be easy on yourself and choose foods and workouts that are inviting, not intimidating. Keep it minimal, keep it stress free and slowly build on it. This is why I have done this program multiple times. Each time I get great results and grow closer to my ultimate goal.