No matter how disciplined we think we are, how refined our diet has become, or how much we try to stay the course, at some point, we will inevitably stray from what we should be eating. Whether the reason is poor preparation, sudden cravings, or unforeseen events, know that you are not ruining your good diet from one bad day. However, several bad days in a row, or even worse, a few weeks or longer in a row, can really screw things up. Let’s face it, we’ve all felt guilty after a period of bad eating, or when we know we could have, or should have done better. So how do we get back on track?
As I prepare for the 2011 World Championships in Shanghai this coming July, my diet has been, and continues to remain a very important part of my routine.
Recently, unfortunately, I hit a bump in the road. I had been craving a Kale pizza at a local Austin restaurant. After a great morning workout, I decided to go for the pizza at lunch. The pizza in general is not that bad. The problem was that I ate the entire thing. What made matters worse, poor planning kept me from getting home until much later in the day, which took me from my normal schedule of eating the right things at the right times. I missed out on eating specific foods I try to always keep in my diet before afternoon practice. To say the least, I was not happy.
At the conclusion of practice I came home to a partially empty refrigerator, and nothing even partially prepared for dinner. Although I scrounged around and ended up making myself a pretty decent meal, it’s definitely not the way to prepare and plan for success.
After being so annoyed at myself for dropping the ball on my diet that day, I was determined to do better. Here are some of the things I did to make my future more healthy…you can do it too!
- Make a short list of your favorite healthy foods that you will incorporate into your diet TOMORROW.
- Plan on going to the grocery store ASAP to stock up on items you need, and like, for a successful diet.
- Fill your water bottle and keep it near to you…hydration is super important.
- Pack a small bag of non-perishable foods that you can put in your car or briefcase for on-the-go.
- When you get home, fill a big bowl of all the greens and other veggies you have. Eat them immediately to help pack nutrients in fast.
- Promise yourself you’re not going to cheat for a certain amount of time in the future. For me I chose a week and a half until I leave for World Champs.
If you were/are frustrated by how you ate recently or are eating, then use this emotion as motivation to get back on track. Get to that grocery store and fill the pantry with tasty foods that make your body happy. Once you feel the satisfaction from eating right again, you’ll be on the road to accomplishing your goals, and feeling great!
Garrett Weber-Gale 
