So often, dieters get hung up in too much structure, leaving them burnt out too soon to "fall off the bandwagon" or "throw in the towel" before goals are met! Too much flexibility often leads to lackluster body composition or unhealthy if-it-fits-your-macros type of dieting.

Your diet should be on a continual continuum of 'structure' and 'flexibility.'  And Flexible Dieting has paved the way for 'Structured Flexibility', kicking the this OR that to the curb to allow for this AND that.  Depending on your starting point, your goals, your timeline and lifestyle... the ratio of structure and flexibility will be determined. 

Three things to consider before determining your level of Structured Flexibility...

1. Your Schedule - Holidays, vacations, busy work seasons may required more flexibility which require you to alter your timeline of when Structure can take the front seat.  Be okay with needing more flexibility through these times... but also be okay with the outcome.
2. Plan Ahead - If you're in a season of higher structure dieting, plan ahead if you have an event or meal that requires more flexibility. Night out with friends coming up? Pre-track a cocktail or dessert or estimated meal out, opt for a high volume breakfast and/or lunch, increase your NEAT and water intake for the day.
3. Simplify - Stop making it harder on yourself.  Simplify your meal choices to make meeting your current needs easier; especially if you're in a season of higher structure.

Take a listen to deepen your understanding of 'Structured Flexibility' within your diet.