Do you remember how you felt listening to America Ferrara's speech in the "Barbie," movie? Drawing inspiration from it, I'm revising parts to resonate with my experiences, not just as a woman, but particularly as a mom.
"It is literally impossible to be a mom. There's pressure to maintain flawless skin and perfect hair. You're expected to remember every detail, from your husband's cousins' kids' birthdays to their ages, ensuring the perfect Amazon gift arrives precisely on time, neither too early nor too late
Like, we have to always be extraordinary, but somehow we're always doing it wrong.
You're expected to be fit, but not excessively so. Too much time at the gym might mean less time for volunteering at the kids' school or working. Balancing work commitments is commendable, but it shouldn't overshadow your role as a parent. Similarly, being a full-time mom is equally valued, yet it often entails taking on leadership roles in every PTA committee across all your kids' schools, especially if you have multiple children in different educational institutions. And let's not forget the societal pressures placed on moms:
A spotless house? Naturally.
Nutritious snacks for the kids displayed in transparent containers, sorted by color. Of course.
Laundry neatly folded and stored away. Every single day.
Sandwich crusts removed and fruit transformed into whimsical ladybugs in the kids' lunchboxes, complete with a handwritten joke tucked in each day.
Permission slips promptly signed and returned by the following morning.
Maintaining an empty inbox by promptly reading and addressing all school-related emails.
Ensuring your kid is first in line at carpool in the morning, then patiently queuing up again at the back of the school after drop-off, so she is picked up first in the afternoon.
Family dinner served promptly at 6:00 PM each evening, with everyone gathered around the table sans electronics.
You're supposed to love being a mother, but don't talk about your kids all the damn time. You have to be a career woman but also always be looking out for other people.
THEN, in addition to all of that juggling and family and other responsibilities, you have to MEAL PREP & EAT HEALTHY FOR YOU!
Prioritizing nutrition is crucial for maintaining energy levels, managing weight, and supporting overall well-being. I will address the challenges of eating clean on a busy schedule and share practical strategies for incorporating healthy eating habits into your hectic lifestyle.
Meal Planning: A Time-Saving Solution Meal planning is a game-changer for busy individuals looking to eat healthily. Dedicate some time each week to plan your meals and snacks, taking into account your schedule and dietary preferences. Consider batch cooking large batches of grains, proteins, and vegetables that can be mixed and matched throughout the week to create quick and nutritious meals.
Batch Cooking: Prep Once, Eat All Week Batch cooking is a lifesaver for busy weekdays. Spend a few hours on the weekend cooking up a storm and preparing meals in advance. Cook large batches of soups, stews, or casseroles that can be portioned out and stored in the fridge or freezer for easy grab-and-go options during the week. Invest in quality storage containers to keep your meals fresh and organized.
Healthy Snack Options: Fuel On-The-Go When time is tight, having healthy snacks on hand can help keep hunger at bay and prevent impulsive food choices. Stock up on portable snacks like nuts, seeds, fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or pre-cut veggies with hummus for quick and convenient options to fuel your busy days. Keep these snacks readily available in your bag, desk, or car to avoid reaching for less nutritious alternatives.
Quick Meal Ideas: Nutritious and Delicious Eating clean doesn't have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. Whip up quick and nutritious meals using simple ingredients and minimal cooking time. Try making veggie-packed omelets, grain bowls with leftover roasted vegetables and protein, or wraps filled with lean protein, leafy greens, and hummus for a satisfying meal on the go.
Utilize Convenience Foods Wisely While whole, minimally processed foods are ideal, convenience foods can also have a place in a busy lifestyle. Opt for healthier convenience options such as pre-washed salad greens, pre-cut vegetables, canned beans, and frozen fruits and vegetables without added sauces or preservatives. These can help streamline meal prep without sacrificing nutrition.