Prepare lunch

Preparing lunch in the morning can feel like a daunting task, especially when the day ahead is already packed with commitments. However, with a few strategic steps, this habit can become a seamless part of your morning routine. To begin with, make lunch prep a nightly priority by planning what you'll make. This allows for a stress-free approach in the morning, as the decision-making process has already been taken care of. Ensuring all ingredients are readily available before going to bed can significantly streamline the morning process.

Starting your day with a clear kitchen counter is essential for efficient lunch preparation. Waking up to a clutter-free space not only clears your mind but makes it more inviting to begin the process of making lunch. Additionally, keep your kitchen tools and containers organized. Knowing exactly where your cutting board, knife, and lunchbox are saves precious minutes and encourages a positive start to the day.

The key to integrating lunch preparation into your morning routine is simplicity. Opt for easy-to-assemble meals that don't require extensive cooking. Salads with a variety of greens, pre-cooked proteins like chicken or boiled eggs, and an assortment of nuts and seeds make for a nutritious and easy-to-pack lunch option. Pre-cutting ingredients and storing them in the fridge can also expedite the morning process. For instance, chopping vegetables for the week ahead on a Sunday evening can significantly reduce your meal prep time each morning.

Moreover, it's important to consider variety to prevent the habit from becoming mundane. Experimenting with different cuisines or incorporating themed lunch days, like "Wrap Wednesday" or "Thai Tuesday", can make the process enjoyable and something to look forward to. Searching for new recipes can also be a fun weekend activity, ensuring your meal plan remains exciting and varied.

Another aspect of making the morning lunch preparation habit stick is linking it to another well-established routine. For example, while waiting for your morning coffee to brew, you can start assembling your lunch. This associative habit-building helps cement the lunch prep routine into your daily life. Remember, consistency is key. The more you repeat the process, the more likely it is to become a natural component of your mornings.

Lastly, consider the benefits of this habit and let them motivate you. Preparing your lunch saves money, ensures healthier dietary choices, and provides a midday meal you can genuinely look forward to. Additionally, the time you devote to this task in the morning can amount to precious moments of quietude and reflection, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day. Embrace the act of preparing your lunch as an investment in yourself and an essential part of your daily self-care ritual.

Track your Morning habits

The MyHabits app helps you with tracking this and many other habits related to health, home care and daily routines. Reminders, notification and weekly status reports assist you in getting good habits in and bad habits out.

The MyHabits app will be available for iPhone in early 2024. A version for Android will follow a few weeks later.