3 Ways to Stay Motivated

As a musician, I'm always looking for an opportunity to play. Whether I'm home alone or with friends, pulling out the guitar is always a joy. For those who have started the journey to learn to play it may bring unwanted anxiety and stress. I tell everyone that anyone can learn to play guitar. With the right teacher and dedicated patience you can be playing guitar in just weeks. 

Over the past year, I've been teaching guitar lessons and have noticed some get discouraged and frustrated when their playing doesn't sound right or their fingers don't move fast enough. I decided to share 3 ways to stay motivated while learn to play your guitar.

1. Be Consistent: Make it a point to practice every day. Even when you don't feel up to it. Don't be distracted by your troubles. Put your energy into your playing. Many times you will actually clear your mind. When your done playing, you'll have better focus with other things in your life.

2. Play What You Know: If you only know a few chords, then play them. Enjoy the challenge to move faster between them. Set a rhythm for your strumming and play the heck out of what you know. Then, after you're warmed up and got your head in the world of music, try the stuff you are struggling with.

3. Listen and Enjoy: Take time to listen to the songs you are trying to learn. During the learning process you may have to learn songs you are not familiar with. Make a play list and relax. Lay back, put your head phones on and focus on every part in the song. This will help you train your ear for the over all makeup for the song.

Over all, never ever give up. That is the only thing that makes you different from being as good as any guitar player you have ever heard. They simply didn't quit. Quitting will guarantee a major FAIL.