When you first started learning how to play guitar, you probably felt really accomplished. Within just a couple of weeks, you went from not knowing how to hold a guitar to being able to play four or five basic chords. But then something happened…you hit a lull. And now you’re wondering if you’ve maxed out your abilities or if there’s a way to improve even more.
If you’ve yet to “master” the guitar, here are several possible culprits that are preventing you from reaching your full potential:
Not Putting in the Time
You can’t improve your guitar skills if you aren’t willing to put in the time. It’s not enough to grab your guitar and strum for a couple of minutes here and there. And you can’t save all of your practice time for the weekends. If you’re serious about improving, it requires daily practice time.
It should be noted that practice time is different than strumming around. Practice is dedicated time where you practice new techniques, songs, chords, etc. You aren’t just repeating the things you know. You’re actively pushing yourself to learn new concepts and techniques.
Trying to Do it on Your Own
Between Google, YouTube, blogs, and online forums, there are lots of free online resources available for learning guitar. However, there are limits to what you can learn. If you truly want to push yourself, you may need to invest in some more specific/advanced lessons to take your skills to the next level.
Once you’ve mastered basic chords and guitar fundamentals, taking online guitar lessons can help you learn new techniques, styles, chords, scales, and progressions. At first, it’ll feel difficult and frustrating, but give it time. You’ll eventually see your skills improve.
Using the Wrong Equipment
You don’t need the most expensive guitar, amp, or gear in the industry. However, if you’re having trouble improving beyond a certain point, it’s possible that your equipment is at least partially responsible for holding you back.
Now is a good time to go to your local music store and play around on some different guitars. Upgrading to something that’s a little more comfortable in your hands could make it easier to take that next step.
No Longer Challenging Yourself
Guitar players often find themselves in a unique position when they first start learning the instrument. In the beginning, it’s really difficult. Trying to stretch your fingers to remember different chord patterns feels exhausting. The tips of your fingers start to hurt and you wonder how anyone could actually enjoy doing this to themselves.
Your strum patterns feel a bit off and you’re so slow to transition from one chord to the next that you give up on every song before you reach the halfway point. But then something clicks. With enough practice, your fingers inexplicably march in the correct order. The pads on your fingertips callous over and it’s no longer painful to play for hours on end. And your strum patterns and chord transitions come naturally. You did it!
But not so fast, my friend.
It’s at this point that most people settle. For weeks, months, or even years, they’ll settle for being able to play a few basic songs with a couple of basic chords. Eventually, they get bored and no longer find guitar fun or exciting. You can call this “The Plateau.” You know some guitar, but you’re no longer improving. You’re just sort of coasting off what you learned in the past.
But do you want to know the truth? If you’re experiencing a guitar plateau, it’s probably your own fault. It’s most likely because you’ve stopped challenging yourself.
If you want to continually improve and enjoy playing guitar, never stop challenging yourself. Being uncomfortable is a driving factor in growth. Push the boundaries and try new things. Take challenging lessons, surround yourself with people who are better than you are, and continue to carve out the time to learn. This is how you improve.
Stop Holding Yourself Back
The truth is that nobody else is holding you back. If you’re failing to improve, it’s your own fault. Thankfully, you don’t have to continue wallowing in despair. Frustration can be replaced with freedom by embracing some of the tips and suggestions outlined above. You have access to everything you need. Now it’s just a matter of taking action.
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