01/06/2026
If I had to do it all over again, these are what I would focus on:
1. You MUST be in a calorie deficit.
Aim for 300–500 calories below maintenance, not 1,200 calories, not starving, just consistent deficit.
2. Protein at every meal.
Hit 0.8–1g of protein per pound of goal bodyweight. (Example: goal 150 lbs → 120–150g/day.)
3. Weekend calories count.
One “cheat weekend” can erase 5–6 days of deficit. Keep weekends within 10–20% of weekday calories.
4. Steps matter more than you think.
Aim for 8,000–12,000 steps/day. That’s 250–400 calories burned without extra gym time.
5. Strength training 3–5x/week.
You burn more from muscle long-term. Prioritize progressive overload: add 2.5–5 lbs or 1–2 reps weekly.
6. Track honestly.
Most people underestimate calories by 20–40%. Weigh oils, nut butter, dressings, cereal, and snacks.
7. Sleep 7–8 hours.
Sleeping perfection.
Aiming for 85–90% adherence beats “perfect for 3 days, quit for 4.” If calories are off by a bit, get right back on it the next meal.
Save this for when you feel stuck, and follow along while we do this together. You’re not alone 🤍