I never felt like I was very good at planning, and have realized that it's part of my problem. If I don't plan... when I get home from a 12 hour day the last thing I want to do is spend anything more than 5 minutes making my dinner. This led me into the fast-food trap. I would know I didn't have anything to heat up at home so I'd stop at Wendy's, Burger King, McD's, Taco Bell - they are all within 2-3 minutes from my house.

I've learned that I'm good at planning when I take the time to do it. Its also a bit of a psychological thing for me. I feel much more satisfied and at ease when I know what to expect. For example, I don't crave a greasy cheeseburger and fries because I know that it's not one of the options to eat - I know whats in the refrigerator to eat and I don't even let my mind wonder to other options. I was faced with the opportunity of eating out this week. I looked at the menu online during lunch and decided what I wanted. That's what I thought about the rest of the day and then I wasn't tempted by the big greasy cheeseburger when the menu was actually presented to me for dinner. I had a salad and actually really enjoyed it.

I'm hoping that while I'm taking the time to be very disciplined right now, that it will pay off when the opportunity presents itself that I haven't planned for - that I will still make good healthy choices.

I also will say that I am certain it is easier for me to plan because my choices don't involve anyone else - I don't have to try to satisfy anyone elses wants at my dinner table.