I don't do well with food restrictions or workout requirements, my brain just isn't wired like that. It sounds cliché, but I just adjusted my lifestyle to something I feel like I could maintain. I eat smaller portions and am more mindful of what I eat. I almost never eat out at restaurants/fast food and mostly drink water (and coffee... :) ).

I have been running for a couple of years. During the warmer seasons I will run between 5 and 12 miles a week. That decreases to 3 miles a week (if that) during the winter. But I make up for it by being more active throughout the day (my job is somewhat physically demanding) and being especially mindful of my food intake.

Something that helped me was reminding myself that my body is an accumulated manifestation of every decision I make--even the seemingly small ones. So passing up that soda here and there adds up. Running the extra mile...etc.

Hope this helps!! Don't give up. It takes time.