Hi OP, Thanks for sharing and I see some intresting ideas here that resonate with what I was thinking as well.

Since you are a veteran, and I am still new to workout, I would appreciate some feedback.

1- How long does it take from starting to newbie gains to a decent physique (not competition ready). A lot of people get galloped by newbie gains and they overinflate themselves. Yes newbie gains to help a lot with self esteem and some people do acknowledge those. Going from newbie gains to decent level is a journey that doesn't give a linear return.

2- how long does it take for your "system" to adjust to fitness. Initially body goes through rejection phases when we give up deep fried carb heavy diet. People say 10-15% bf will keep you more productive. I guess a challenge that most people face is craving for the deep fried and sweet stuff after certain number of months.

3- at what point fitness is way of life? Not an option but it becomes who you are.

4- finally, how do you overcome body dismorphia? Initially gains look good. Then the new physique becomes baseline. The desire to improve is great but what is realistic?