How to Get Motivated to Play Guitar Again

Picking up the guitar again after a hiatus can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Guitarists of all levels find themselves in a rut from time to time, whether it’s due to life getting in the way or simply losing the spark. If you’re looking to reignite your passion for playing, you’re in the right place. Together, we’ll explore practical ways to get motivated and excited about playing guitar again, especially if you’re into those heavy riffs and shredding solos. Let’s get back to making some noise!

Rediscover Your Love for the Music

Remember the first time you heard a riff that made your jaw drop? That feeling is what got you here in the first place. Whether it was Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” or something more obscure, think back to those moments that made you fall in love with metal guitar. Revisit the albums and bands that stirred your soul. Crank up the volume and let yourself get lost in the sound again.

Music is more than just notes and rhythms; it’s an emotional journey. When you reconnect with the music that moved you, it’s easier to find the motivation to pick up your guitar. Try making a playlist of your favorite metal tracks or discovering new bands that capture the essence of what you love. This simple act can reignite the flame and remind you why you started playing in the first place.

Join a Community

One of the best things about being a musician is the community that comes with it. Whether online or in person, connecting with other guitarists can be incredibly motivating. Join forums, Facebook groups, or local meetups to share your progress, ask questions, and get inspired by others. Sharing your journey with fellow musicians offers support and accountability, making it easier to stay motivated.

If you’re into modern metal, Riffhard offers a fantastic community of like-minded guitarists. With lessons from some of the world’s best metal guitarists, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and support as you get back into playing.

Set Realistic Goals

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you set the bar too high. Instead, start with small, achievable goals. Maybe it’s learning a new riff, improving your picking speed, or mastering a particular song. Whatever it is, make sure it’s something you can realistically accomplish within a short timeframe.

Breaking down your goals into manageable steps helps build momentum and keeps you motivated. As you accomplish each goal, you’ll gain confidence and be more inclined to tackle bigger challenges. Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small.

Track Your Progress

Keeping track of your progress can be a powerful motivator. Whether you use a journal, an app, or just a simple checklist, documenting your journey allows you to see how far you’ve come. It also helps identify areas that need improvement, giving you a clear path forward.

Regularly reviewing your achievements can boost your confidence and remind you of the progress you’ve made. This ongoing reflection keeps motivation levels high and encourages you to continue pushing forward.

Incorporate Variety

Sometimes, getting stuck in a rut is simply a matter of boredom. If you find yourself playing the same songs or practicing the same techniques over and over, it’s time to shake things up. Introduce variety into your practice sessions by exploring different styles, techniques, and even tuning your guitar to different keys.

Consider experimenting with different subgenres of metal, such as death metal, djent, or progressive metal. Each style has unique challenges and characteristics that can reignite your passion for playing. By exploring new sounds and techniques, you can keep your practice sessions fresh and exciting.

Try New Gear

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of trying out new gear. Whether it’s a new pedal, amp, or even a different type of guitar, experimenting with new equipment can inject fresh energy into your playing. The new sounds and possibilities can inspire creativity and motivate you to spend more time with your instrument.

While it’s easy to get caught up in gear acquisition syndrome, you don’t need to break the bank to find something new and exciting. Even small changes, like trying new strings or picks, can make a big difference in how you approach your playing.

Focus on Technique

Improving your technique can be incredibly rewarding and motivating. When you notice tangible improvements in your playing, it’s easier to stay engaged and excited about practicing. Focus on specific techniques that challenge you, such as alternate picking, sweep picking, or palm muting.

Don’t be afraid to slow things down and concentrate on precision and clarity. Use a metronome to keep yourself honest and gradually increase the speed as you improve. This methodical approach can help you build a solid foundation and keep your motivation levels high.

Lessons from the Masters

Learning from the best can be a game-changer. Seek out lessons and tutorials from respected guitarists who specialize in the styles you love. Their insights and techniques can provide valuable inspiration and guidance on your journey.

At Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the world’s top metal guitarists, covering various techniques and styles. With a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips, you’ll find plenty of motivation and support to elevate your playing.

Create a Practice Routine

Having a structured practice routine can make a world of difference in your progress and motivation. A routine helps you stay focused and ensures you’re spending your practice time wisely. Plan sessions that balance technique, song learning, and improvisation to keep things interesting.

Don’t forget to include time for warm-ups and cool-downs to prevent injury. Consistency is key, so aim for regular practice sessions, even if they’re short. The more you play, the more you’ll improve, and the more motivated you’ll become.

Be Flexible

While having a routine is important, it’s equally crucial to remain flexible. Life can be unpredictable, and there will be days when you can’t stick to your usual practice schedule. That’s okay! Adapt and adjust as needed, and remember that quality matters more than quantity.

Being open to change and adjusting your routine as needed will help you maintain motivation and prevent burnout. It’s all about finding a balance that works for you and keeps your passion for playing alive.

Celebrate Your Achievements

Recognizing and celebrating your achievements is an essential part of staying motivated. Whether it’s learning a new song, mastering a technique, or simply playing for an extended period without mistakes, take the time to acknowledge your progress.

Treat yourself to something special, like a new piece of gear or a night out with friends. These small rewards can provide a much-needed boost and remind you of the joy that comes from playing guitar.

Share Your Success

Don’t be shy about sharing your accomplishments with others. Whether it’s posting a video of your playing on social media or simply telling a friend, sharing your success can provide validation and encouragement.

Connecting with others and receiving positive feedback can boost your confidence and motivation, encouraging you to keep pushing forward and striving for new goals.

Find Inspiration Outside of Music

Sometimes, finding motivation means looking beyond the music itself. Drawing inspiration from other areas of your life, such as art, literature, or nature, can offer fresh perspectives and fuel your creativity.

Engage in activities that challenge your mind and body, such as hiking, painting, or writing. These experiences can provide new insights and ideas, ultimately enriching your playing and reigniting your passion for the guitar.

Explore New Interests

Venturing into new interests and hobbies can also help reignite your passion for playing guitar. By broadening your horizons, you’ll expose yourself to new influences and ideas that can inspire your music.

Whether it’s learning a new language, trying a new sport, or picking up a different instrument, these experiences can offer fresh perspectives and motivate you to return to your guitar with renewed enthusiasm.

Stay Patient and Persistent

Getting back into playing guitar requires patience and persistence. It’s essential to remember that progress takes time, and setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Stay focused on your goals and keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.

Be kind to yourself and recognize that everyone has their unique path. Embrace the ups and downs, and trust that your dedication will pay off in the long run.

Embrace the Journey

Finally, remember that playing guitar is a lifelong journey, not a destination. Embrace the process, enjoy the ride, and learn from every experience. The more you immerse yourself in the music and the community, the more rewarding your journey will be.

With dedication, patience, and a willingness to explore new ideas, you’ll find the motivation to play guitar again and reignite your passion for the instrument.

Final Thoughts

Getting motivated to play guitar again is all about reigniting your passion and finding new ways to connect with the music you love. By revisiting your favorite bands, setting realistic goals, and exploring new techniques, you’ll find yourself inspired and eager to pick up your guitar once more. At Riffhard, we’re here to support you on your journey with lessons from some of the world’s best metal guitarists. Let’s make some noise together!