how to get motivation to play guitar

3 min read 26-01-2025

Want to pick up your guitar more often? Many guitarists, even experienced ones, struggle with maintaining consistent motivation. This article offers practical strategies to reignite your passion and make playing guitar a regular and enjoyable part of your life. Let's find your guitar groove!

Rediscovering the Joy: Why You Started Playing Guitar

Before diving into strategies, it's crucial to reconnect with your initial reasons for learning guitar. Why did you pick up that instrument in the first place? Was it the dream of performing on stage? The desire to express yourself creatively? The simple pleasure of making music? Remembering your "why" is the bedrock of lasting motivation.

Unearthing Your "Why"

Journaling: Spend some time writing down your initial motivations. What inspired you? What were your goals?
Memory Lane: Look at old photos or videos of yourself playing. Relive the excitement and joy you felt.
Talk it Out: Discuss your passion for guitar with a friend or family member who supports your musical journey.

Practical Steps to Reignite Your Motivation

Once you've reconnected with your "why," it's time to put strategies into action. These are practical steps you can take to make playing guitar a consistent habit.

1. Set Realistic Goals

Don't overwhelm yourself. Instead of aiming for hours of practice every day, start with small, achievable goals. For example:

Practice for 15 minutes three times a week.
Learn one new chord each week.
Master a simple song within a month.

Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement will fuel your motivation.

2. Find Your Musical Tribe

Playing with others is incredibly motivating. Consider joining:

A local band or jam session: Playing with others fosters collaboration and pushes you to improve.
An online community: Connect with other guitarists online for support, advice, and inspiration.
Guitar lessons: A teacher provides structure, feedback, and accountability.

3. Diversify Your Practice Routine

Avoid monotony. Mix up your practice sessions to keep things interesting. Try:

Learning different genres: Explore styles you haven't tried before.
Improvising: Let your creativity flow freely.
Transcribing your favorite songs: A challenging but rewarding way to improve your skills.

4. Make it a Habit

Consistency is key. Schedule dedicated practice time in your calendar and treat it like any other important appointment. Try incorporating your guitar practice into your daily routine. For example:

Play for 15 minutes before breakfast.
Practice during your lunch break.
Play a few songs before bed.

Small, consistent efforts yield greater results than sporadic bursts of intense practice.

5. Reward Yourself

Positive reinforcement is essential. When you achieve a goal, reward yourself! This could be anything from buying new guitar picks to treating yourself to your favorite coffee.

6. Embrace the Challenges

Learning guitar is a journey, not a destination. There will be frustrating moments, but don't let them discourage you. View challenges as opportunities for growth.

7. Listen to Inspiring Music

Immerse yourself in music you love. Listen to guitarists who inspire you. This will reignite your passion and provide fresh ideas. Explore different genres and styles to broaden your musical horizons and find new sources of inspiration.

8. Set up the Perfect Practice Environment

This might seem simple, but a comfortable and inspiring practice space can make a big difference. Make sure you have enough space, good lighting, and everything you need within easy reach. Consider adding inspirational posters, plants, or other elements that make your practice space feel positive and productive.

Overcoming Common Barriers

Lack of Time: Even 15 minutes a day can make a difference. Prioritize your practice time, just as you would any other important commitment.
Frustration: Learning guitar takes time and patience. Don't give up when things get tough. Seek help from a teacher or online community.
Burnout: Take breaks when needed. Don't push yourself too hard. A break can rejuvenate your passion.

Conclusion: Keep Playing!

Finding and maintaining motivation to play guitar is a personal journey. By understanding your “why,” setting realistic goals, diversifying your practice, and celebrating your achievements, you can keep your musical passion alive for years to come. Remember to have fun! The joy of making music is the ultimate reward. Keep playing, and you'll continue to grow as a musician.