When losing weight, I've realized there are several things to avoid for long-term success. First, skipping meals is a big no-no, as it slows down metabolism and can lead to overeating later on. Extreme diets might seem tempting, but they’re tough to maintain and can deprive the body of essential nutrients. I also try not to obsess over the scale, since weight can fluctuate for various reasons—focusing on how I feel and my overall progress is more motivating. Cutting out entire food groups isn’t wise either, as it can lead to nutritional imbalances. Finally, neglecting self-care, like managing stress and getting enough sleep, can sabotage weight loss efforts. Staying balanced and patient is key to sustainable success.