by Pamela Dixon
SUNY Jefferson
Watertown, New York
One thing that stands out from my early college days is discovering Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and time management skills. That was roughly 27 years ago, yet both concepts have profoundly shaped my approach to balancing work and life.
Abraham Maslow’s psychological theory, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, emphasizes that to reach self-actualization, basic needs must first be fulfilled. The foundational layer includes essentials like food, shelter, and clothing. Whether you manage one job or three, and whether you cook for yourself or for others, meeting this fundamental need for food is non-negotiable. Cooking may not be your passion, but for some of us, the act of preparing and sharing meals can spark a sense of connection, creativity, and satisfaction that enhances overall well-being and healthier living.
How many of you leave the house in the morning and mentally run through a checklist? Mine goes like this: Did I leave anything on? Is everything safe proof from my mischievous miniature poodle? Is the backdoor locked? Do I have a plan for dinner? Before I even head out the door for my day job, I’m already planning for my second role.
Yes, cooking often feels like a second job, especially after years of balancing a career and family. But over time, I’ve refined my meal planning and prep routine to maximize the benefits of a little advance work. Keep reading to see if these strategies might simplify your life, too!
– Commit a few hours on Sunday afternoons to get a head start for the work week.
– Double the recipe whenever possible. This lets you stretch one meal into two, or freeze it for later. I use this approach with Italian dishes, casseroles, soups, chili, and salads.
– Think ahead when chopping veggies – prepare extra to roast, boil or steam, so they’re ready to pull from the fridge during busy nights.
Additional benefits of meal planning and advance prep include fewer dirty dishes to tend to on weeknights, less food waste, and streamlined grocery shopping lists that help you avoid clutter.
Want to share your own time-saving kitchen tips? Send them to Pamela Dixon at [email protected]. Knowledge fuels the soul!
Pamela Dixon is the public relations technical specialist at the State University of New York at Jefferson Community College in Watertown, New York. She has been a member of NCMPR for more than 18 years.
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