August 7 Weekly Technique

Picture the foods you're always reaching for. A crisp apple. Juicy roast chicken. Crunchy popcorn. Is your mouth watering yet? Time to (mentally) dig in so you can add even more to your dietary tool box.

No matter where you are or what you're working toward, we all have to think about food. You may have even run through the usual questions already today-what to make for dinner, what you need from the store, and how it's all going to fit in your Budget. But taking time to think beyond the logistics can make this journey more successful, sustainable, and liveable long-term.

How? Doing a sweep of your current go-tos can uncover useful insights­and not only for grocery-shopping purposes, but also for moments when things get a little dicey. Let us explain: Maybe apples are one of your current faves. Recognizing that you eat them because they're sweet, crunchy, portable, easy, full of filling fiber, and maybe even on your ZeroPoint™ foods list. This may do two things:

"When hunger hits, you may make a beeline to a Granny Smith or Gala apple because you understand why and how that type of snack works for you.

It gives you a roadmap for finding new go-tos: Start with apples. What else is crunchy and scoops dip like a champ? Celery! Or, a banana isn't crunchy, but it's sweet, portable, and pairs well with PB.

And don't forget to pause and celebrate your healthy choices. That helps boost your confidence in maintaining them and continuing to make new ones. Remember, building new habits takes effort and doesn't happen overnight-you've worked hard to get where you are today!