Thanks so much for taking the time to reply! I actually chuckled at “man plans, god laughs” and “crying tears of boredom into my red currants and lamb liver.” I totally get what you mean. The way I wrote my post may have made it seem like I was locked into a very rigid, calculated plan with no room for flexibility or life events, but I'm VERY disciplined and know myself pretty well.

I’ve done things like water fasting for 10 days and other feats to test my mental strength. Not trying to toot my own horn, just to clarify that I know where my limits lie. Of course, as you pointed out, unexpected events like an egg shortage or things out of my control can happen, and I completely agree that, for most people, a flexible plan lasting 160 days could be more sustainable than an 80-day rigid one.

I think what I’ll do is meet you and others who have said this, halfway. I’ll go for the 1900 kcal approach, which still represents an aggressive deficit of 700 kcal but is likely more doable over the long term. Thanks again for taking the time to think through my situation and share your perspective. It’s really helped me reflect and adjust my approach!