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Everyone has a different weight loss journey and does things differently. The only thing everyone does the same is to eat less than they burn. Other than that, we have it all here!

We have low-carb, low-fat, high-protein, Mediterranean diet, Atkins, Paleo, Vegetarians, Vegans, keto, intermittent fasting, "If it fits your macros" and the ever popular "I'll make up my own diet, thanks" people. Some even do an "Eat more to weigh less" thing that I don't understand. Some have cheat days, some don't. Some prefer to include a treat every day, some weekly, some on rare occasions and some not at all. Some are "Breakfast is the most important meal" people while others are "I need to save those calories to eat at night" types.

Some do all cardio, some lift weights exclusively, some do both. We might get our exercise at work, at home or in the gym, but then some of us would prefer no exercise, thank you very much. Some run marathons and others say, "Are you crazy? I don't even want to drive twenty miles!"

There are just so many different people doing so many different things! We are all over the place. People sometimes argue this THIS is better and No, THAT is better. But what everyone does works for them, so they're all right!

It's really hard to know what is going to work for you until you just pick something and go with it. See how you like it, if it works, adjust as you go.

The one and only thing that I think everyone should do is to see a doctor and have a physical when beginning their journey. "I feel fine" doesn't mean you aren't sick and have no vitamin deficiencies, etc. There are reasons all the experts will tell you to see a doctor and they're good ones. So, do that!

A trip to a dietitian isn't a bad idea, either. You'll get good, solid info from someone qualified to give it and it will be tailored just to you - your unique medical stuff, food you like to eat, etc. I think it's the best 30-60 minutes you can spend on your diet!

What I do is right for me and probably not right for anyone else, but here goes:

Eat breakfast
Eat lots of small meals throughout the day
Don't eat for three hours or so before bed
Drink a glass of water before bed (like 15oz)
Drink water all the time - no soda, energy drinks, etc.
Eat healthy foods (Fruits, veggies, no-fat dairy, whole grain breads and lean, white meats), very low-fat
No alcohol, ever
No illegal drugs, ever
Swim and walk
Lift weights
Get enough sleep (well, I try, but this peri menopausal stuff...I wake up and can't go back to sleep)
Little stuff like parking at the back of the lot, taking the stairs instead of the elevator

I try to eat a very balanced diet, but more often than not, I'm having berries for breakfast because I love them and want to eat them. They're a treat for me. C'est la vie.

I second the above! Sound advice. Consistency wins... Not consistent perfection, just consistent honesty & effort.