Losing weight and eating less does not mean deprivation, hunger, or pain, in my opinion, it's quite enjoyable! You spend less money, you're shedding the unfortunate belly and you're feeling happier. I know many people who think weight loss is all about starving 'model' style, and they either don't even take it up - or starve themselves, get sick, feel horrible and become demotivated.
Goals matter in terms of the eating schedule and exercise, but hunger and deprivation has no place in a good plan! The single best tip I can give you in this case is.. Don't drink calories, eat them. After reading that, I'm sure you'll realise and find that you might have gotten better results just by dropping a few drinks!
Also.. Water, just read this.