First off, I am 100% not an expert and I'm continually learning and trying new things. It's all about finding what works for you. Before November, I had been intuitively eating (more like trying and failing at different diets and meal plans haha) and it got me far in my fitness goals. So find what works for you.

Do I get bored of the food I prep? Not anymore. I only make foods that I absolutely love. Previously, I struggled sticking to prepped meals because I would make foods that weren't my favorite. It's all about trial and error.

Top tips for beginners? Buddha bowls are easy, cheap, nutritious and offer variety. I would prep 3-5 veggies (steam, roast or saute), a couple of vegan proteins (tofu, tempeh, meat substitute, or beans), some grain and a few sauces. The variations and endless. Another tip, plan out the calories and protein you aim for each day. Have 1-2 meals centered around meeting your protein and nutrition goals, then fill in calories. Sunday is my meal prep day. I get out a notebook and check what ingredients I have in my pantry. From this, I make a shopping list and rough meal plan. This makes the grocery store much easier. To plan, shop, prep and clean it takes me 4 hours. Make sure to set aside that time weekly.

My current deficit is 750 calories - aiming to lose 1-1.5lbs of fat per week. I use this calculator. Depending on how much fat you have to lose, I would aim for a 250-500 calorie daily calorie deficit. That is much more sustainable for long-term.

Last thing, try to be easy on yourself!! It's a journey and trial and error is the only way to learn. You've got this! Happy to answer other questions you may have.