I used to go to the gym with my best friend every day, for months. It was extremely convenient because we went to the same gym and had similar schedules. I got leaner, lost weight, and drank an insane amount of protein shakes.

When the fall semester began, I stopped going to the gym and blamed it on my schedule. In all honesty, I could have gotten up earlier in the mornings or gone later in the evenings, but it just wasn't convenient for me.

Once my best friend moved out and I was faced with the idea of going to the gym solo, I was scared. I'm uncoordinated, kind of goofy, and can't lift nearly as much as I'd like. I don't have cute gym outfits or over-the-ear headphones. I felt like there was going to be a giant target on my back the moment I walked into the gym.

Flash forward to week three, and I've been going to the gym every day, taking pre-workout and eating protein-packed meals. Sure, my outfits aren't exactly flattering and I still get tangled in the cords of my headphones, but I'm going to the gym by myself, something I never thought I would do.

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I noticed that when I worked out with my best friend, we'd be at the gym for an hour and a half, taking turns on machines or spotting each other. Now, I take 45 minutes to work out because I don't stand around chatting or debating what I should do next. I walk in and immediately begin my work out. I don't take forever because it's just me, my weights, and my music. I get in and get out and feel better knowing I did a great job at the gym, even if I didn't spend two hours there.

So if you're trying to get into hitting the gym, start working out with people you trust and can motivate you. Once you've got the hang of it, start going to the gym on your own. You'll get comfortable with your new routine and might even feel better knowing that you're focused solely on your workout.