This page is part of Live Better Health Coaching. Find out about Live Better by clicking here.
Before you start…
Make sure you have a pen and paper handy. You will be asked to complete simple, written tasks as you go along.
Allow time to work through the whole topic, preferably without distractions – 30 minutes should be plenty.
Watch the video
For your convenience, you can watch a short video covering the topic below.
The Problem
Here are the main problems you will try to solve this week.

- Which of these problems ring true with you or not?
- What other problems do you experience with your meal planning or food choices?
- List ways that you have made poor food or exercise choices because of poor planning.
A Solution
Here is an overall solution for the problems you face. Make sure you understand the general idea of how you are going to solve things.

- List how this possible solution may or may not work for you.
- List as many ways as possible you could Plan Ahead, so you make better, healthier choices.
Your Action
Here is the detailed Action Plan you can follow, like a recipe, to solve the problem.

- Re-write Your Action above, but customising it to your personal situation.
- List the barriers to you successfully completing Your Action this week (eg – what events, situations, people etc could get in your way?)
- List the ways that Your Action can be made easier to achieve this week (eg – what tools, tactics, people etc can help you overcome your barriers?)
Now do it
Now you have your Action Plan in place for the coming week, make sure you actually do it! Don’t let yourself get distracted or nudged off course.
If you complete the Homework Form to log Your Action, you will receive reminders throughout the week to help you stay on track.
Remember, you are worth the effort you will put into this…
Top Tips

To make a balanced meal:
- Fill half your plate with veggies and fruit first.
- Next add lean protein, filling a quarter of your plate.
- Finally, fill the remaining quarter with wholegrains.
Remember, anything not on the Healthy Eating Plate counts as a ‘treat’.
Use your food diary to help you track how your meals actually compare the the Healthy Eating Plate – don’t guess!
Tools to help
Use a template like below to plan your meals in advance.
Homework Form – if you complete this online you will receive reminders to help you throughout the week.
Review Form – complete your review online before you attend the Review Coaching Session so you are prepared for the session.
Continue your food and exercise diary – these will form a valuable source of data for you as you progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to plan every meal for the whole week?
Nope. Plan as far in advance as you are happy with. But it is best to know your meals at least 24 hours in advance, so you can prepare or get any ingredients etc.
What if I change my mind?
That’s fine! Change your meal to one you have planned for another day. You can easily shift todays meal to a different day.