Portion Control

Let's face it, losing weight is difficult. But there are a few things you can do to make it much easier. For now let's focus on portion control and planning your meals. Now this idea is by no means my idea, but when I heard it and then tried it I loved it. The process is simple and requires a little work at the beginning and then it's a no brainer from there on out. Follow these steps and you'll be on your way.
First, choose 2-4 sources of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. Buy a large quantity of everything. Enough for about 7 meals each. chicken breast, lean steak, lean pork, and fish make great protein sources. Mashed sweet potatoes, wild rice, and black beans make great high fiber carbohydrates. Asparagus, brocoli, and sweet peppers make good vegetables.
Second, cook all of it. Grill it, bake it, steam it... Cook the food however is necessary, just do so in a healthy way. Use spices and healthy oils to add flavor instead of sauces.
Third, chop up all the food. You can weigh the food or just eyeball a reasonable amount and place that into a small plastic bag or container.
Fourth, freeze all your bags/containers. The day before take out a combination of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables and place it in the fridge for the next day. Take your food to work or wherever and microwave. Now you have a healthy, proportioned meal for lunch and dinner that tastes pretty good.
To add simplicity place all three items into a single container so you only have one thing to worry about.
If you like mixing foods then keep all the items separate and everyday choose a different combination.
You can take this a step farther and do the same for breakfast, but I haven't found anything that tastes good and freezes well. If you do let me know. My yogurt and granola are getting pretty boring.