To Bring or Not to Bring Lunch at Work

The midday meal – a crucial part of the workday routine. We all have amazing work lunch time stories, goofing around with your best work buds, debating on what path a certain project should take; or for those who cherish quiet time, sleeping. But for many office workers, the question lingers: pack your lunch or grab something on the go?

This seemingly simple decision can have a significant impact on both your wallet and your waistline. Here are some financial and health implications of both options to help you decide what’s best for you.

Packing Your Lunch

Bringing lunch from home is generally the more budget-friendly option. You have complete control over ingredients, portion sizes, and overall cost. Planning and prepping meals in advance allows you to utilize sales and discounts at the grocery store, stretching your food budget further.

Additionally, packing a lunch gives you more control over your dietary choices. You can ensure your meals are balanced and nutritious, avoiding the potential pitfalls of unhealthy fast food or restaurant choices.

Eating Out

While packing your lunch offers financial and health benefits, eating out can be convenient and provide social interaction.

The convenience of a quick bite with colleagues or trying a new restaurant can be tempting. However, eating out regularly can quickly have a negative impact on your budget, especially if your peers are the kind to go to a quick mall run and eat out at a fancy restaurant every lunch. Mindful planning can help mitigate the cost.

Consider brown-bagging lunch most days and using eating out as a special treat or an opportunity to socialize with colleagues.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to bring lunch or eat out depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. However, the power of planning is undeniable. Packing your lunch most days and allocating a specific budget for occasional restaurant meals can help you achieve a healthy balance between financial well-being and enjoying a break from the routine. Though going with your work friends to a restaurant run once in a while won’t hurt too.

The bottom line is small, consistent changes can have a long-term impact on your finances and your health. Why not try to mix everything up for a perfect balance of socializing and cost-cutting? (GFB)