More often than not, office kitchens are crowded with hungry coworkers and cluttered with food, dishes, lunch bags, and more. It’s not exactly a relaxing haven to enjoy a break. But instead of feeling like you need to avoid the micro kitchen altogether, follow these tips to conquer it like a pro!
Pack with Purpose
Brought a nutritious lunch today? Good for you! Not only was that a healthy choice, but a simple way to save money, too—about $2,000 a year according to a Workonomix survey. Just make sure to take your items out of your lunch bag before they go in the fridge. Those fancy insulated bags keep cold in, but they also keep outside temperatures out, which means they’re not doing your lunch any good sitting in the fridge. Plus, they take up a ton of space. Try unloading your containers, labeling them with your name, and placing them directly in the fridge. You’ll be amazed by how much room you save and how fresh your food tastes!
Check the Date
Can’t remember the last time you used that open bottle of salad dressing? Chances are it’s time to toss it. Keep an eye on expiration dates for drinks, salad dressing, and other packaged foods you put in the fridge—and if it’s past its prime, throw it away (or recycle, or compost it when appropriate). Not only is this a healthy habit to follow, but also a courteous way to keep the communal fridge clean.
Don’t Abandon Your Leftovers
Boxing up leftovers to enjoy at another meal is a great way to monitor your portions and save money—just be sure to keep tabs on that to-go container once it goes in the office fridge. Use sticky notes to remind yourself to grab that uneaten, half-sandwich for dinner before you head out the door. Or set a calendar reminder to enjoy it for lunch tomorrow.
Keep It Clean
Remember you are sharing a kitchen with your coworkers, not to mention your boss! Always clean up after yourself—don’t leave dirty cups or utensil in the sink, clean up your spills, and wipe off any microwave splatters you may have accidentally created.
Try Not to Hover
The kitchen can be a tempting place to take a break, but it can also be very crowded with people preparing food and going in and out. Rather than perching precariously between the coffee maker and the condiments, take your brown-bagged meal outside for some fresh air and a much needed change of scenery. And once you’re out there, consider slipping in a few hundred post-snack steps. All that fresh air and activity could be just what you need to amp up your creativity and help you get through the rest of the workday with a smile.
Want to bring more great health tips to the office? Learn how Fitbit Wellness can help your company develop a successful wellness program, create engaging challenges, and improve employee health.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or condition. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, altering your sleep habits, taking supplements, or starting a new fitness routine.
Emma Leyton
Emma Leyton spreads the word about healthy living for Fitbit Group Health. A lover of all things related to health and wellness, Emma has a passion for workplace wellbeing and how it positively impacts peoples’ lives. You can find her commuting everywhere by foot, running the hills of San Francisco, roasting brussels sprouts in her oven, and blending smoothies in her Vitamix.
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