How to Motivate Yourself to Play the Guitar

So, you’ve got your guitar, and you’ve probably spent quite a bit of time watching those jaw-dropping solos and riffs played by your favorite metal guitarists. But when it comes down to picking up the guitar and practicing, motivation can sometimes be elusive. Let’s break down how to keep that fire burning and get you shredding like a pro.

Set Clear Goals for Your Guitar Journey

Like any journey, playing guitar is way more rewarding when you know where you’re headed. It’s not just about learning random songs or techniques; it’s about setting specific, achievable goals that inspire you to pick up your guitar regularly.

• Define Your Style: What kind of guitarist do you want to be? Are you drawn to the intricate solos of progressive metal, or the raw power of thrash? Knowing your style can help tailor your practice sessions.
• Short-Term Goals: These could be as simple as mastering a particular riff or nailing down a scale. Small wins build confidence.
• Long-Term Goals: Perhaps it’s joining a band or writing your own EP. These goals keep you motivated over the long haul, providing a sense of direction.

Breaking down these goals into manageable chunks helps. If you’re aiming to be as fast as Kirk Hammett, start with the basics and work your way up. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection.

Find Your Practice Routine

Consistency is key. Having a dedicated practice routine can be the difference between stagnation and growth. It doesn’t have to be hours long, but it should be regular and focused.

• Time Management: Set aside a specific time for practice, just like you would for any important activity. Even 20 minutes a day can make a huge difference over time.
• Structured Practice: Break your sessions into segments. For example, 10 minutes on scales, 10 on rhythm, and 10 on learning new songs. This keeps things fresh and covers all bases.
• Use Tools: Apps and tools can enhance your practice. A custom metronome, like the one we offer at Riffhard, can help you stay in time while practicing complex rhythms.

Building a routine takes time and discipline, but once it’s in place, it becomes a natural part of your day. Soon, you’ll find yourself looking forward to those practice sessions.

Make Practice Fun

Let’s be honest—repetition can get boring. Keeping practice fun and engaging is crucial if you want to stay motivated.

• Play Along with Tracks: Jamming along to your favorite songs not only improves your timing but also makes practice enjoyable.
• Incorporate Games: Challenge yourself with games like “how fast can I improve this riff?” or “can I play this solo by ear?”
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different tunings or effects. It keeps things interesting and might lead you to discover a new sound.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy playing. If it feels like a chore, you’re less likely to stick with it. So, keep it light and fun.

Connect with Other Guitarists

Surrounding yourself with fellow guitarists can be incredibly inspiring. It’s like having a support group that shares your passion and challenges.

• Join a Band: Playing with others not only improves your skills but also keeps you motivated. It’s also a great way to learn new things from your bandmates.
• Online Communities: Places like guitar forums or social media groups can provide support and advice. You can share progress, ask questions, or find new inspiration.
• Attend Workshops or Jams: These are excellent opportunities to meet other guitarists and learn from professionals. Plus, they’re a lot of fun!

Engaging with a community helps you stay accountable and inspired. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make friends who share your passion.

Embrace Challenges

Every guitarist faces hurdles. Whether it’s a difficult technique or a creative block, overcoming these challenges is a big part of growth.

• Setbacks are Learning Opportunities: Whenever you hit a wall, remember it’s an opportunity to learn. Embrace the struggle; it’s part of the journey.
• Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s a teacher, a friend, or an online resource, guidance can provide new perspectives and solutions.
• Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or record your sessions. Looking back at your progress can be a huge motivator.

Challenges are what make accomplishments so rewarding. Embrace them with open arms and watch your skills grow.

Take Breaks and Rest

Playing guitar is fun, but it shouldn’t lead to burnout. Knowing when to take a break is just as important as knowing when to practice.

• Listen to Your Body: If your fingers are sore or your brain is exhausted, take a break. Rest is key to recovery and performance.
• Use Breaks Productively: Listen to new music, watch performances, or explore music theory. These activities can inspire and refresh your mind.
• Balance Practice and Rest: Striking a balance between practice and downtime ensures you stay motivated and avoid burnout.

Remember, it’s okay to step back and recharge. You’ll come back to your guitar with renewed energy and creativity.

Seek Inspiration Everywhere

Inspiration is all around us. Sometimes, you just need to know where to look.

• Explore Different Genres: While metal is your mainstay, venturing into other genres can provide fresh ideas and techniques.
• Watch Live Performances: There’s something about seeing a live show that can reignite your passion for playing.
• Read About Musicians: Discovering the stories behind your favorite artists can be incredibly motivating.

Inspiration can strike anywhere, so keep your eyes and ears open. Before you know it, you’ll be itching to pick up your guitar and create.

Utilize Resources and Lessons

There are countless resources available to help you improve, from books to online tutorials. But choosing the right ones can make all the difference.

• Online Courses: Platforms like Riffhard offer lessons from top metal guitarists, covering everything from rhythm to lead techniques.
• Instructional Books: Many great books focus on metal guitar techniques and theory. These can be excellent resources when combined with practical playing.
• Tutorial Videos: YouTube is a treasure trove of free lessons and tips from guitarists around the world.

Investing time in the right resources can accelerate your learning and keep you motivated with new material and techniques to explore.

Celebrate Your Progress

Lastly, don’t forget to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Recognizing progress is crucial for staying motivated.

• Record Yourself: Keep recordings of your playing over time. Listening to how far you’ve come can be incredibly rewarding.
• Share with Others: Whether it’s a friend or an online community, sharing your progress can be encouraging and affirming.
• Set Milestones: Reward yourself when you reach a goal. It could be buying a new piece of gear or attending a concert.

Celebrating your progress not only boosts motivation but also makes the journey more enjoyable. It’s about acknowledging how far you’ve come and fueling your desire to keep going.

Final Thoughts

Staying motivated to play guitar is a journey in itself, filled with ups and downs. By setting clear goals, finding a routine, and seeking inspiration, you’ll keep that passion alive. Remember, at Riffhard, we offer lessons from the best in the metal world to help you reach your guitar goals. Keep playing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the music.