Luke Carlson, a 46-year-old CEO, has maintained the same breakfast and lunch every day for the past 22 years to stay fit and avoid decision fatigue. His breakfast consists of a bowl of porridge with banana, protein powder, and creatine, followed by a protein bar. For lunch, he eats either a turkey or chicken sandwich, without variation.
A Strategy for Success
Carlson, who leads the fitness company Discover Strength, explains that this routine helps him focus on important decisions. "It is how I avoid decision fatigue; I dial in on the macro-nutrients that I need while staying in an appropriate calorie range," he says. He insists the repetition does not become boring, stating, "I look forward to the foods. I like them and they are nutritious; I can find or pack these foods during travel, and I travel pretty much every week of the year."
Inspired by High-Profile Figures
Carlson's approach mirrors that of notable individuals who simplify daily choices, such as Mark Zuckerberg, Steve Jobs, and Barack Obama. By limiting decisions about food, he frees mental energy for his demanding role. His daily calorie intake ranges between 1,900 and 2,200 calories, helping him maintain his physique. To add slight variety, he alternates between sliced bread and wraps for his sandwiches, while dinners offer more flexibility with options like chicken, steak, or salmon.
Acceptance from Others
Carlson, who is single and without children, notes that those around him accept his dietary habits. "They all understand my nutrition habits and have been flexible to work around them. They might joke or give me a hard time, but they know I need a sandwich for lunch - always. As do all my coworkers," he says. His efforts to reduce decision fatigue extend to his travel wardrobe, where he wears the same outfit: Lululemon trousers, a Lululemon top, and white Cole Haan shoes.
He adds, "Every day for lunch I eat a turkey or chicken sandwich. I will have a small dark skim mocha with no whip, a protein shake and an apple. People close to me understand that these are my non-negotiables - but I don't want to ruin or negatively impact other people's experiences. So, I'm happy to pack my own food or pick restaurants that they would enjoy while I can still find something that meets my needs."
By sticking to this strict diet, Carlson believes he preserves his creativity for business and achieves his work goals. "These are not only nutritious options that fuel my day, but the consistency also helps me avoid decision fatigue. I know exactly what I'll have every day. I travel extensively and I know exactly what my routine will be, overall helping me as a CEO," he concludes.
