Slow & Steady Weight Loss Day #9: Pack a Snack & Stay on Track

Welcome to Day 9 of the Slow and Steady Weight Loss Challenge!

This challenge is inspired by my paid eCourse—and I’m so happy to be sharing it here on the blog, one day at a time, over the next 28 weeks. Whether you’re following along week-by-week or just dropping in for a little motivation, you’re in the right place. My goal is to give you the practical tools, gentle guidance, and steady encouragement you need to create lasting, sustainable change—step by step, day by day.

Last week on Day 8, we focused on slimming your spaces—clearing out clutter to make room for the healthier, happier life you’re building.

Today, we’re turning our attention to a small habit with big benefits: packing a snack. This simple shift can make all the difference when it comes to staying on track and avoiding temptation when hunger strikes at the wrong time.

One of the most helpful habits I’ve learned on my weight loss journey is this simple one: always have a healthy snack on hand.

Why? Because hunger has a sneaky way of showing up at the most inconvenient times—between errands, after a long meeting, while stuck in traffic, or walking past that tempting food court. When you’re caught off guard, it’s easy to fall back on old habits—like drive-thrus, vending machines, or oversized muffins at your favorite coffee shop.

Pack a Snack & Stay on Track

Today’s Assignment: Pack a Snack

Start getting in the habit of carrying a healthy snack with you—in your purse, briefcase, tote, or desk drawer—so you’re never caught empty-handed when hunger strikes. A little preparation now saves a lot of temptation later.

Here are a few portable, satisfying snack ideas that work well:

A small portion of nuts (individually portioned bags are great for grab-and-go)

A piece of fresh fruit like an apple, banana, or clementine

A protein bar with 200 calories or less

String cheese or a Babybel round

Roasted chickpeas or a small serving of trail mix

Whole grain crackers with a wedge of light cheese

Choose something you enjoy and that holds you over—your “emergency snack” is your secret weapon for staying on track!

Also This Week – Continue with Your Core Habits:

Choose soup often. Starting meals with broth-based soups is a smart way to fill up with fewer calories and points. Plus, soup is comforting and grounding—perfect for slowing down and tuning in to your body’s needs.

Take your 5-minute breather. A few minutes of stillness each day can help you reconnect with yourself, reduce stress, and avoid emotional eating.

Drink your water. Hydration keeps your energy steady and your cravings in check. Keep that water bottle nearby!

Get in your 10 minutes of movement. Whether it’s a short walk, gentle stretching, or dancing in your kitchen—every bit of movement counts. Just 10 minutes at a time adds up fast!

Journal your food and mood. Awareness is power. Take a few minutes to jot down what you’re eating and how you’re feeling. Patterns and insights will follow.

Remember, small steps like packing a healthy snack might seem simple—but they’re exactly what build momentum over time. Every smart choice you make adds up, helping you stay grounded, focused, and in tune with your goals.

This journey is about progress, not perfection—and you’re doing beautifully by showing up and continuing forward, one doable habit at a time.

“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.”
– Jim Rohn

Until next time,
To your health and happiness,
Martha ?

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