In this lesson, we are going to look at 5 ways to make sure you are moving forward in your guitar practice. This is something that many people who start the guitar struggle with. And it is this struggle that leads them to quit before they get started. This lesson will give you guidance on how to avoid this struggle.
#1: Have clear and concise goals (short & long-term)
With this in mind, you will know exactly what you need to work on and won't mess around learning things that won't help you to accomplish these goals. Having specific goals and focusing on them will keep you motivated daily and get you there much quicker.
#2: Follow structured learning (a method book or a video course)
This is like a battle plan. It gives you exact steps on what to do and what to do next. In a specific order. This saves time and keeps you focused on the target. It keeps you from wasting time and getting the most out of the time that you are spending on your goal.
When you jump from topic to topic without a plan, your learning is unstructured. After a while of doing this, you get a sense of not accomplishing what you want to accomplish. The reason for this is because of gaps in your learning sequence. A structured learning path will eliminate this problem.
This is why method books and online courses are fantastic ways to learn. They provide you with a specific path to where you want to go and what you want to accomplish. This saves you time, effort, and struggle. Because everything is easily set out step-by-step and easy to follow.
#3: Get feedback and guidance (through private instruction)
In-person private instruction is a great way to learn guitar because you get on the expressway to goal accomplishment. The right instructor can give you personal insight on what to do better, as well as guide you on what not to do. This will save you even more time and frustration.
A personal trainer (private instructor) can also help you build confidence in your learning quickly. This makes learning and playing the guitar a lot of fun. Which in turn keeps you motivated to keep moving forward. Which in turn allows you to get to where you are going quickly and easily.
#4: Applying what you learn (daily practice)
Learning scales and chords is one thing, but applying them in a musical context is something else entirely. You must be able to apply what you learn. You must be able to adapt your skills to real-time situations. For instance, playing with a friend or family member. If you feel you can do this, then you are heading in the right direction.
#5: Enjoyment & satisfaction
You want to make sure you are getting these two things out of what you are learning. Because if you are not, you won't stick with it. Ultimately, playing guitar should be fun. It should not be a chore to learn. If you find it is, you're doing it wrong!
Although at the beginning of any journey, it might not always be easy, it does get easier as you progress forward. And that is the key to learning to play the guitar. Keep moving forward. But as I've stated before, you must commit to the work. To the daily effort of study and practice.
Take it one step at a time
Now, if you are just getting started, or maybe you've already started but not where you want to be, I recommend you check out the option of following a step-by-step system like in a method book. This is how I learned way before the Internet was invented.
It is one of the reasons why I authored and self-published method books of my own. These can help you get quick results and let you progress at a pace of your own. Self-study can be a great way to learn, as it also develops discipline and time management skills.
Guitar Method Books
A structured approach to learning
Guitar method books offer a structured learning system. With lessons that break down concepts and techniques into easy-to-understand lessons that build upon themselves. This way, you learn what in the proper order with no gaps in between. Since it's in a book, you can take it slowly or as fast as you like. Whatever fits your style of learning.
You also begin to develop discipline and time management because you get to learn when it's convenient for you. When it fits your schedule. This allows you to develop skills beyond just playing guitar. Skills that can easily help you in other parts of your life. It is for this reason that guitar method books are a great way to learn. Just pick the one that fits your fancy, and start with lesson 1.
Private instruction is also available
In addition to my guitar method books, I also offer private one-on-one instruction. These can be a great option as well, as they provide customized lessons that cater to your interests, quick results, and a friendly guide to make learning fun. If you feel this might work for you. Just contact me at my website, and we'll set up a time to talk on the phone.
Thanks for your time today, and good luck with your learning.
Until our next lesson, take care.
Sincerely, Dwayne Jenkins
