What diet strategy has given you the best weight loss results

I have been on my weight loss journey for a few months now and I have tried a couple of different eating approaches. Some helped me drop a few pounds quickly but others felt too restrictive to keep up long term.

I am looking for strategies that are both effective and realistic for everyday life.

What diet strategy has worked the best for you? Do you focus on high protein meals or balanced plates or something completely different? What made the biggest difference in your progress?