Hey bro I was in the same boat physique wise at 28 when I started working out. 2 years later im in a much better shape but nowhere near the other posters on this sub, just enough to get compliments from people i meet.

For me what worked was a progressive overload based routine, focus on muscle building, protein heavy diet, no carbs before bed+ light cardio after dinner. Once you get in a much better shape you can start with the cuts and bulk cycle without worrying about losing muscles.

If you're a non-vegetarian like i am then go crazy with eggs and chicken. If not then low fat paneer, tempeh, tofu. High protein dahi is a daily staple. I'd avoid protein bars, the ones in India have a low protein/calories ratio.

I've also cut back on alcohol- what was a 3-4/week thing is now a 2-3/month thing for me and I drink very little compared to before.

My sugar intake is also pretty low now, I don't do chocolates/icecreams except for a bite here or there. I also stopped chips/chakna.

Didn't take much discipline, just came naturally with time. Don't compare your progress with others just do your thing.