Hello all, this sight is amazing!! I feel awkward posting this here because all of you are so committed experienced but I am looking for some help.

I just got back to the gym last week after a long layoff (kid, job, life...poor excuses). For the last two weeks I have done a full body routine every other day. I am so frustrated and discouraged....my strength and stamina is pathetic. Old women (no offense to anyone) are much stronger and better conditioned than I am. I play my music and keep my head down to not look at others and compare myself to them but I know the weight and reps I am doing and it is sad. I know it doesn't happen overnight and I just started but I am struggling with ego and self confidence. Can anyone offer any words of advice? Other than shut up...suck it up...and do it?

Ironhead,
I’m sure most all of us guys, and some gals, know exactly how you feel. The guy next to you is curling what you are getting ready to bench. I say so what?? Did you go to the gym today to have a lift off with the biggest, most experienced guy you could find? Or did you go there to improve YOUR health, physique, strength etc..? It doesn’t matter what the person next to you is doing. As long as you are progressing each week in any area of your training, you should feel great. You decided you were going to start training again and now you have. First goal accomplished. Next goal, continue to train on the days your program dictates without missing. Miss a day; make it up the next day.
I can promise you if you keep at it you will start seeing some results in no time. Your strength will be going up weekly, along with your stamina and self confidence. You’ll be feeling good about yourself in no time. Make it a goal to add 5 -10 pounds to your 5 rep max in the compound exercises by the end of the year. This goal is very attainable and if you do it next week, make a new goal for yourself. I know setting a goal and accomplishing it makes me feel great. If I miss it, I know what to shoot for next time.
It doesn’t matter how you compare to the next guy, you’re doing this for yourself. Keep it up.
CR

Thank you so much for your response. I appreciate your helpful inspirational words. I have started to track my workouts and am trying to take satisfaction in any increases. Thanks again.