Want To Learn GUITAR? Here’s What You Need To Know First

So, you're thinking about learning how to play the guitar--the coolest, most expressive, most fun instrument in the entire world. What you need to know upfront is that learning guitar is not all sunshine and rainbows. Today, I'm going to tell you about the common dilemmas and roadblocks that all beginners face when they get started with guitar playing, and why I stuck with guitar despite those challenges.

Finger Pain

The muscles in your fingers will become sore from using them in new ways.  The tips of your fingers will also become sore from pressing down on the guitar strings.  Your fingertips will develop calluses as a result. This is a normal part of the physical adaptation process that comes with learning the instrument, and it’s something that we all face. So, you’re not alone!  

Finger pain is only temporary.  Just think that when your fingers are hurting and you see calluses forming, you're just developing armor on your fingers that most people don't have!

Take breaks when you need them, but don’t go too long without playing because it’ll be as if you’re brand new to guitar, and the pain will start all over again. The type of guitar you have can make a difference regarding pain, which leads me to my next point. 

Guitar Types

There are two general categories of guitars: acoustic and electric.  There are financial, practical, and individual differences between both. Each type has different pros and cons, limitations, and possibilities.  You may find a strong interest in both types. In this case, you'll probably find yourself asking, "Which type is best for me to start with?" Well for starters, you may just want to pick the type that looks the coolest to you. That way, you'll be more motivated to pick it up and use it.
 

Acoustic Guitars

All you’ll need is the guitar, a pick, and an extra set of strings.  You can opt for accessories such as straps if you so desire.

 
Electric Guitars

These require more of an investment.  In addition to the guitar, you'll need cable, amplifier, and a pick.  Again, you can opt for a strap too.  If you want to make sure you get the guitar that’s best for you, take my free quiz.  It’ll give you personalized results based on your individual preferences.  

Guitar Takes a Long Time To Learn

This can lead to a lot of frustration for guitar learners.  What you immediately hope to learn depends greatly on what your goal is. What are your biggest hopes and dreams with guitar?  Leave a comment below–I’d love to hear what you hope to achieve.

As you may have guessed, it's important to practice regularly.  If you can squeeze in 30 minutes a day, you should be all set.  The key is to stay consistent.  I've got a free guide that talks more about how to determine practice frequency based on goals you set for yourself.  

Like many other things, you get out what you put in. Things that are worth having, like money, strength, and knowledge take time to acquire. You've got to ask yourself if learning how to play guitar is also on that list. For many guitarists out there (including myself), knowing how to play guitar and developing a deeper understanding of music is an incredibly enriching experience. The reason I started this website was to share it with you in hopes that you get to enjoy it as much as I do.  This leads me to my final point.

Why Stick With Guitar Even Though It's Challenging?

There are many reasons why I’ve stuck with it, but here are just a few.  While there are frustrations and the journey is not always smooth and glamorous, guitar playing is simply the best activity for me.  It can be very therapeutic mentally and physically.  After a long or stressful day, grabbing the guitar has been a very effective mindfulness exercise.  It has also helped me personally with alleviating pain from wrist issues.

The guitar is also my favorite creative tool. It helps me express myself in better ways than words.  Whether it's just noodling around and coming up with a fun riff or laying down a full arrangement in my home studio, the possibilities are endless. 

Lastly, I decided to learn guitar because I wanted to play like the rock stars I was exposed to early on in my life. The rush of playing air guitar is one thing, but nothing is more rewarding than putting in the work to eventually play the very songs you never thought you would ever play.

Conclusion

All I can say is if you're on the fence, just go out and give it a shot. You made it to the right place by checking out this article because Zak Char Guitar is all about getting guitarists unstuck with their playing.  Comment below and tell me two things: 

1) What inspired your interest in guitar? 

2) What are your biggest hopes and dreams for learning guitar?

If after reading this, you think to yourself, “You know what, I’m gonna get myself a guitar and go for it,” then don’t forget to take my free guitar-type quiz first.  Once you’re ready to learn, check out my lesson called The First 3 Things Beginners MUST Know to Start Learning Guitar.  It’ll be your first guitar lesson and it’ll set you on the path to success!  

Check out the full video: Want To Learn GUITAR? Here’s What You Need To Know First - YouTube