Ok... so I have not started my new diet. I'm scared of not being able to loss weight on my own. I have used pills and all different types of programs in th passed. I dont want to use pills .I just stopped smoking 6months ago and I did gain weight. My size 16 is now a size 18. I have a long way to go. Does anyone have advice? What worked for you? I need to get started asap!! Thanks!

You're in the right place!
There are many different people here and many different plans that work for them. You might have to try two or three (or four of five) different plans before you find one that works and fits you.
Firstly I would find out your calorie limit for the day and then track the calories you are eating for a few days. (If you haven't already done so)

Skim around the threads and read up on a few plans. What's your idea? WeightWatchers? South Beach? Calorie Counting? There's a dozen different things you can pick from.

What works for me : I became a vegitarian. And I eat little dairy (intolerant) So that + my active job = weight loss very easily as long as I don't cheat of calorie bombs. Which is my weakness, sweets and extra large dishes on my weekend (Which I'm in at this moment) So I tend to keep busy to keep from mindlessly snacking. There's also very little wheat flour in the house (bread, tortillas, cereals, pancake mix...ect) because my man has a gluten intolerance.

Now you don't have to become a Vegitarian, it was a very personal choice and nice to know that I'm simply overeating plants. But I still have sweets within my reach and I just have to learn to control my portion size, and that's key.

Anyways, good luck! You'll find a plan that works well with you.

Sakai, Thanks! I'm just about to sit down and write out a plan /goals Good job on your half way mark...can't wait for my half way mark