How 18 Months Without Food Delivery Transform My Relationship with Eating & Saved Me Money

Last year, I made a simple choice that changed my life: I stopped ordering food delivery. This one decision led to better habits, healthier finances, and a renewed relationship with food.

At first, it felt tiny. I challenged myself to not use delivery services for a month. That month turned into six, and now it’s been 18 months. I’m not going back.

I realized I was spending way too much on delivery. It became a routine—three times a week, sometimes more. My bills added up to around $100 weekly. Even after deducting the cost of the food I would have eaten anyway, the delivery fees and marked-up menu prices were eye-opening. I found myself avoiding the kitchen, which felt wasteful both financially and emotionally.

With that in mind, I made cooking easier for myself. Now, I batch-cook meals twice a week. I prepare ingredients ahead and freeze single portions of soups and stews. Even simple dinners—like a boiled egg on toast—are satisfying and far better than a soggy delivery meal.

When I’m busy, I opt for ready-made grocery items like rotisserie chicken or salad kits. I keep my favorite sauces handy to add some flair to any meal.

There have been unexpected upsides too. Besides saving money, I feel more in control. I’m actively choosing what to eat instead of passively waiting for it to arrive. Cooking has helped me reconnect with my hunger cues, making me think twice before munching out of boredom or stress.

Celebrating small wins is another boon. I enjoy nailing a dish I used to order or finishing the week without any food waste. Sure, I occasionally miss the ease of a hot pizza arriving at my door. But I’ve found ways to satisfy those cravings, like keeping a frozen pizza ready for those long days.

I still allow myself takeout, just not delivery. Picking up food feels like a treat, unlike ordering in, which felt more like a problem.

Quitting delivery did more than save me money; it transformed how I view food and self-care. Cooking isn’t a chore anymore; it’s a valuable tool in my life. Eighteen months later, I don’t miss the fees, the cold fries, or the mindless scrolling through delivery apps. What I’ve gained—simplicity, savings, and self-reliance—more than fills that void.

#### Expert Insights
Nutritionists emphasize the importance of cooking at home. According to a recent survey by the Food & Wellness Institute, 72% of people say they feel healthier when they cook at home. This shift not only benefits mental well-being but also fosters healthier eating habits.

#### Conclusion
My experiment with stopping delivery has been freeing. Not only has it helped my wallet, but it has also reshaped my relationship with food. I encourage you to consider the benefits of cooking at home—it may surprise you, just as it did me.



Source link