We’ve all been there. You sign up for something with the best of intentions. For me, it was a meal plan subscription. The idea was simple: make dinnertime easier, save time, reduce stress, and maybe even discover some new favorite recipes along the way. Sounds like a win, right?
But here’s the truth—I never used it. Not once. The emails piled up, the ingredients went unbought, and each passing day left me with a twinge of guilt. I spent money on something that didn’t work for me, and for a while, all I could focus on was the waste.
But now, with a little perspective, I’m seeing it differently. And if you’ve ever done something similar—whether it’s a gym membership, a course, or a subscription—you’re not alone. Here are the takeaways I’ve gathered:
1. It’s Okay to Try and Miss
Sometimes we won’t know if something fits until we try. Not everything is going to be the magic solution. Just because it didn’t work this time doesn’t mean the idea was bad or that you failed.
2. Be Kind to Yourself
We’re often our own harshest critics. Spending money on something that didn’t work can feel like a waste, but it was an investment in your intention to make life better. That’s still valuable.
3. Use It As Feedback
Clearly, something about that system didn’t match my lifestyle. That’s not a dead end—it’s data. Now I know I need a simpler approach, or maybe something more flexible. That’s useful insight for next time.
4. Just Because It Didn’t Work Now Doesn’t Mean It Won’t Ever
Sometimes the timing just isn’t right. I may revisit a meal plan system later—when life is a little less hectic or my routines are more structured.
5. You’re Still Making Progress
Even the “wrong turns” are part of the journey. You learned something. You moved forward. And that matters.
So if you’re feeling disappointed in yourself over something that didn’t go as planned—pause, take a deep breath, and be proud that you tried. Life is messy. Growth isn’t linear. But the effort to simplify, to improve, to care for yourself and your family? That matters.
And maybe tonight’s dinner will still be cereal and toast. That’s okay too. 😉
Because We Care® Life is Better 