Never compare this new weight loss journey with last time. Each time can be completely different based on many factors (age, stress levels, activity levels, kinds of foods your eating , etc.). You don't need exercise to lose, but it helps. If you are off on the weekends, get in exercise on Saturday and Sunday. Pick one or two days during the week to squeeze in a 20-30 minutes. You can also get a pedometer and aim for 10,000 steps a day. It makes you more aware, so you become more aware and take more steps. Progress not perfection. The most important thing is to have your diet plan down.