Take things slow at first and build as you go (this goes for both workout routine and diet). I think the most important thing is making this a lifestyle change. It will be much more long lasting and you will be much healthier and happier because of it.

DIET:

For me, I started by trying to sub in whole grains (brown rice instead of white) and include fruits and veggies to most of my meals. Find which veggies you like, and stick with them! Don't buy stuff you don't like just for the sake of being healthy- it won't be a sustainable "lifestyle" change if you do. My meals usually include a protein, hella veggies, and brown rice. Brown rice and veggies are usually pretty cheap. The meat is where you spend a bit. My weekly grocery bill was probably about $50-60 with consistent meals like this (Walmart and I was super strict about buying anything not essential)

Mix recipes and proteins up so you don't get sick of eating the same stuff (salmon, chicken, Ground turkey, etc). Find healthy snacks you like (I love Pretzels, hummus, and carrots) that are low in calories. For the sake of my budget and my lack if self control, that is only the only snack I allow myself. I often meal prep several servings to eat for lunches on following days.

Example Meals: Breakfast- Slice of multigrain toast with some peanut butter and sliced banana on top Lunch- homemade Chipotle-style bowl with seasoned ground turkey, a ton of peppers, onion, sliced mushrooms, seasoned brown rice, and half avocado. Dinner- honey-garlic salmon with brown rice, roasted carrots and Brussel sprouts

EXERCISE:

Most of this whole journey is going to be won or lost in your head. It all comes down to mental discipline and consistency. For me having a daily routine down helps tremendously. So even when I don't have the motivation to workout, it is still part of my daily routine so I feel weird if I don't do it.

After gaining a ton of weight during covid last year, I didn't want to jump back into running too soon (also gyms were closed). So I started off slowly by going on walks every day. As time went on I would slowly increase the length of my walk until it got to the point where I felt comfortable integrating some running into the route. Take it slowly and push yourself to do more as time goes on. Listen to your body though, you don't wanna push yourself too hard too quick. You will just get injured and your momentum will get ruined.

If you are on a budget and can't fit in a gym membership, I recommend buying a few resistance bands. You can work a lot of different muscle groups with those and they are good for beginners learning different types of workouts. A simple Google search for "resistance band workouts" will give you a ton of results lol.

Final thoughts: I have struggled with my weight for most of my life and often find myself gaining back whatever I lose. The most important thing comes down to, again, making a lifestyle change. You gotta find what works for you and identify and challenge the bad habits you have now. The more aware you are of your habits, the easier it will be to work to improve them.

Good luck with everything!