To effectively lose weight, avoid drastic calorie cuts, which have a 95% failure rate due to their unsustainable nature. Instead, start by reducing your daily caloric intake by a manageable 10-25%. This moderate approach helps you adjust comfortably without feeling overly deprived, making it sustainable over the long term. Think about how you can maintain your goal weight right from the start. Focus on developing habits that align with living at your goal weight, such as choosing more nutrient-dense foods and incorporating regular physical activity into your routine. By starting with the mindset of maintenance, you create a realistic lifestyle that supports both achieving and sustaining your weight goals.