I remember the first time I started working out and lifting weights. As a freshman in high school, I enrolled in the most basic P.E. class my school offered and I regretted it. When sophomore year came around, I switched to the strength and conditioning P.E. class and stuck with it until I graduated. Back then I had no experience with weight lifting whatsoever so you can imagine how overwhelming it was initially. All I knew was I wanted to try something new and focus on building muscle.

Once I was out of high school, I’ll admit that I fell off the fitness wagon for quite some time. I didn’t like that I was wasting time laying around doing nothing. My mindset had completely changed and I got my ass up and went to the gym. Now, not having my teacher from high school to push me meant that I had to do everything on my own. Being a girl, stepping foot into the weight room in spandex and suddenly I had all eyes on me. Sure, it was a bit intimidating and I felt a little out of place at first.

However, staying motivated and going to the gym changed my life.

But how did I stay motivated and committed? Most people are too lazy or convince themselves they have something better to do when they really don’t. They may even go to the gym for two weeks and then quit. So how did I do it? What’s my secret? Well, I’ll tell you everything you need to know.

1. Find what’s best for you.

First of all, everyone is different and there will be exercises that will vary depending on the person. So part of the process is finding what you like best and what you’re comfortable with. I recommend trying new things but don’t injure yourself. Who knows, you might discover one you really like. For me, I really enjoy working out shoulders and legs.

2. Working out reduces stress.

Going to the gym and working out is proven to reduce stress. So if you’re the type of person that is under a lot of stress, go to the gym. It’ll get your mind away from whatever it is you’re stressing about. I promise it helps.

3. Get a workout buddy.

For me personally, I like to work out alone. However, I do like inviting my friends to work out with me sometimes and am open to people coming with me if they ask as well. So if you’re just starting out, I would go with a friend. Having someone there with you will be more motivating and you’ll get to have fun at the same time. It’s also nice to know that you have that designated person to spot you and push you when you feel like giving up.

4. Find a workout routine.

There are tons and tons of workouts people post all over the internet; I’m sure you’d be able to find one you’d be interested in. Pinterest, Youtube, and blogs have different workouts that target specific muscle groups. If you want a recommendation, Whitney Simmons on Youtube posts motivating and inspiring workouts frequently.

5. Focus on what YOU are doing.

I’ve noticed that another issue people have about working out is that they are too self conscious about other people watching them and feel insecure. I used to be this way too and sometimes I still get that way. The pressure of stronger, long-term lifters doing their daily workouts may appear overwhelming and nerve-racking. Well honestly, they won’t care what you’re doing. They’ll be too focused on their own workout. I’ve learned how to tune everyone else out and only pay attention to what I’m doing even if people stare at me. So just put on your headphones, stay focused and ignore everyone else. It totally works.

6. Working out will become an addiction.

Once you see results, it becomes an addiction. The harder you work and the more dedicated you are, the better the results will be and the more satisfying you’ll feel. Once I start seeing a change in my body, I instantly fell in love with working out. I actually get upset if I skip a gym day. (P.S. they make tons of cute workout clothes which can be addicting as well.)

7. Make time in your schedule.

Being a college student with a part-time job, I get pretty busy. However, I don’t make excuses for not having time to go to the gym. All you need is one hour of your time and that’s it. Attending class Monday-Friday and working 30 hours a week, I still go 5 days a week for 1-2 hours. After sticking to a set schedule, I’ve never felt happier.

Now that you know everything about working out, you can lace up your brand new Nikes and get your gym membership at your local gym. Remember, any progress even the smallest makes a huge difference. I believe in you. Set your laziness and insecurities aside, work to achieve your fitness goals, and be happier. That’s all it takes.