How to plan meals in four simple steps

Skeptical about adding another thing to your to-do list? We get it. But meal planning is actually a major gift to Future You. Use this guide to get ready for the week ahead, and see if you don't thank yourself later.

We're all for spontaneity when it comes to weekend getaways and date nights. But at mealtimes-especially if you're hungry, tired, or busy or just don't have the energy to cook-it can lead to spontaneous combustion of your Points· Budget.

On the other hand, if you spend a little time planning at least one or two meals a week, research suggests you're more likely to stick to your goals and lose weight. Why? It gives you the tools to prepare for challenges and turns a healthy choice (a home-cooked meal) into an easier one: If you've already picked a recipe, have ingredients, and know it takes only 15 minutes to prep, making dinner can feel less like a chore.

After all, meal planning isn't just about what you eat; it's about how you eat-say, after a long day or when faced with less nutritious options. Planning also often means more than just a healthy meal because it helps you stay within your Budget, save Points for a special event, and celebrate a blue-dot streak and other small steps that lead you to your goal.