The first step to conquering weight is definitely accepting you have it. Hell, be proud of it! It's a part of you and it means there is more of you! Then you realise that you're quite happy with your body, slim or not. And in my experience the weight just... falls off. Wierd, I now need a belt for 36" jeans when a year ago I'd struggle to get in a 40". But I don't mind if it comes and goes, and that's the most important thing.