The modern world of work has heightened pressure for increased productivity on unprecedented levels. In order to stay in their jobs and achieve some level of work-life balance, it's common sense and standard time-management advice that busy professionals from all walks of life must come up with strategies to get more done in less time. As a by-product of this, the modern busy person tends to outsource most things domestic, including buying groceries and cooking food.
While the convenience of occasional delivery services and takeouts is undeniable, choosing to supply your own food-related needs can actually work as a productivity hack for a number of reasons. First, no one can be efficient and focused 24/7, which means making time to go to the store and cook your own meals will give you a chance to move your body, get some fresh air, and generally create a buffer of time and space to help you gain perspective on all of the work tasks on your plate. Second, meal prep doesn't have to be synonymous with wasted time: you can listen to an audiobook or podcast, make a phone call and, of course, hone your culinary skills as you cook. What is more, with the gained control over all ingredients that go into your dishes, you'll likely be eating healthier food, saving money, and feeling more energized to optimize the remainder of your day.
To help busy professionals get started on "insourcing" their meals, we have put together a collection of easy recipes with six ingredients or less by a variety of healthy living experts of nationwide recognition, including Once Upon A Pumpkin, Jayme Williams, Cynthia Sass and Every Day Learn and Play. Tag along and get a taste of how to incorporate wholesome ingredients into meals and snacks that you can prepare in no time!
Good Mo'ning Sunshine Kale Smoothie
This smoothie is the perfect way to start your day! Simply combine kale, water, pineapple, apple, strawberries, and whole flax seed, and blend until well incorporated. The result is a low-calorie, high-fiber drink that is easy to digest, supports vision, promotes blood clotting, lowers cholesterol levels, and boosts immune health. Quick breakfast dreams do come true with the right choice of ingredients!
Kale Veggie Black Bean Tacos
You can get these easy, lunch-friendly tacos prepared with only five essential ingredients, namely Tuscan kale, corn tortillas, canned black beans, bell pepper, and butternut squash. Heat your tortillas on a skillet and top them with fresh kale and the remaining veggies and grains after sauteing them on a pan with a little bit of oil or roasting them in the oven. If you're feeling inspired, top your masterpiece off with avocado slices, pumpkin seeds, and/or crumbled feta cheese.
Sweet Greens Smoothie
Your after-lunch sweet snack cravings are satisfied with this super easy smoothie! Combine lime, mango, fresh orange juice, collard greens, and grapes in a blender, and voilà, enjoy a fresh drink for nutritious hydration during the day. Best served cold! Is your mouth watering yet?
5 Ingredient Sausage, White Bean and Collard Soup
This nutritious soup serves four and only requires 20 minutes of combined prep and cook time. All you need to do is: brown smoked sausage on an Instant Pot; add collard greens, chicken bone broth, canned white beans, and paleo herb seasoning; and cook covered on high. The result? A rich-tasting family meal with only 290 calories per serving.
Low Cal Key Lime Pie
Keep the momentum and make your own kale key lime pie for dessert. You need kale, honey, yogurt, graham cracker crust and a few more ingredients to bring this recipe to life. The preparation is also quick and simple and can be stored in the freezer to enjoy all week.
Doing your own shopping/cooking is one of many mindset shifts that can make your day feel more balanced and satisfying instead of stealing your time. Start small with quick recipes like the ones we've curated above, and work your way up to the variety of other wholesome options featured on our website. With a solid foundation of healthy eating habits, you will end up with more time and energy to get things done in your professional life.