B.A.L.A.N.C.E.

B.A.L.A.N.C.E  -- it's such a weird thing sometimes. There's no right or wrong way to approach this. The type of balance you need when it comes to nutrition, depends completely on your goals. When I first started my fitness journey, I was 100% following my meal plan with absolutely no cheats/slip ups. This was because I had 45 lbs to lose and I was ALL IN. If you have a huge goal like that, then why give yourself the option on 80/20? If you want to see the results, go all in and be strict with yourself.

Right now, I would say I'm doing about 90/10. The only time I ever eat something not on my meal plan is the occasional weekend drink or cheat meal (which are typically rare) or some type of chocolate during the week.

Some people (aka my family) think that I am still to strict with what I eat, but the thing about healthy eating is that YOU are the only one who knows what's good for your body. Just like I know that if I have a giant cheat me or a couple drinks, I am 100% going to wake up the next day feeling like crap, bloated, and full of regret. When I eat good, I feel good, so it's not being restrictive, it's listening to your body.

But with balance, you just have to do what is right for you and your goals. If you want to live that 80/20 nutrition balance, or that 100/0, then go for it! Only you know what will work for you, your body, your goals, and your lifestyle.

P.s - When you do decide to give yourself treats and cheats, make sure it's only for one meal and not the entire day. A day of cheats turns into 2 days, then a week, and then you're completely off of your plan. When you have a holiday weekend like this one, indulge a little if you'd like, then get right back on track :)