You’ve been eating out consistently for weeks, months, even years, and now you are wondering about a better way to cut down on ordering takeout without feeling like you’re missing out.
No worries, you’ve come to the right place.
As someone who used to eat out a lot, I can tell you that I know and understand your struggle. In the past, I felt like fast food was all I could live on because the desire to cook wasn’t there. But as I got older and realized how much money I was spending each day on fast food, I had to figure out the best approach to eliminating it.
HOW TO CUT DOWN ON ORDERING TAKEOUT
Now don’t get me wrong, I still order takeout from time to time, but the great thing about it is I have so much self-control in that area. And you can get to that same place as well. Consider these five tips if your goal is to cut down takeout this season.
1. Meal Prep in Advance
A significant reason why people eat takeout is that they don’t have ready-made food at home. And if they do, it’s often foods they don’t particularly enjoy or crave. So, if you’d like to reduce ordering takeout, I suggest meal-prepping in advance for foods that you want. Consider making homemade versions of some of your favorite takeout orders and stocking up your fridge with them. That way, if you have cravings, you’re already good to go.
2. Set a takeout day
You’re trying to cut down on ordering takeout, not eliminate it. So to do this, pick a day weekly or biweekly that you will order takeout. This will prevent FOMO and ensure you still dine at places you enjoy.
3. Take snacks on the go
It’s common to order takeout, especially when you’re on the go and need access to homemade meals. Thus to avoid the temptation of ordering takeout, I suggest taking some healthy snacks with you. That way, you can quickly eliminate any cravings that creep up on you.
4. Set a monthly takeout budget
Budgeting helps keep you focused on your goals and makes you aware of your habits. So, I recommend setting a monthly takeout budget to keep track of your spending and be mindful of when you’ve exceeded your takeout allowance.
5. Know your “why”
Do you want to reduce eating out because you intend to save more money? Maintain a healthy lifestyle? Or want to make more home-cooked meals? Whatever your why is, you must keep that at the forefront of your mind, as this will motivate you to stay on track with your goals.
What are some other ways you plan to cut down on eating out? Let me know in the comments below.
