6 Reasons Why Learning Guitar Is Hard (And What to Do About It)
By Ben Makes Music
Introduction
Ever wondered why guitar seems easy for some but feels like a mountain climb for others? You’re not alone. For many beginners, picking up a guitar and playing even a simple tune can be a frustrating journey filled with sore fingers, confusing chords, and seemingly impossible scales. While some lucky few seem to breeze through, for most, the process is full of little hurdles that can make you feel like giving up. In fact, research shows it takes the average person around 66 days to build a habit—so sticking with the guitar can be a commitment. But here’s the thing: those initial difficulties don’t last forever.
If you’re committed, you’ll find the guitar more approachable than you might think. I’ll be sharing the six biggest challenges new guitarists face and, more importantly, practical steps to overcome each one. So, if you’re thinking of putting that guitar back in its case, don’t! You’re closer to jamming out your favourite songs than you think.
Why Is the Guitar So Hard to Learn?
Playing the guitar requires coordination, muscle memory, and patience. It’s a mix of both mental and physical effort, and unlike some instruments, the guitar demands dexterity and a fair amount of endurance. Here’s why learning to play can feel like an uphill battle.
1. The Guitar Is Physically Hard to Play
When you first start, your fingers will hurt. Period. Pressing down on metal strings and trying to shift between chords builds calluses and muscle strength over time, but it’s uncomfortable at the start.
What To Do About It: Don’t overdo it right away. Try short, consistent practice sessions—around 10-15 minutes a day is a great start. Take breaks, shake out your hands, and avoid pressing down too hard. Your body will adapt quickly if you let it.
2. Learning Guitar Chords Is Too Hard
Chords can be a nightmare initially. Getting all your fingers to work together, not touch the wrong strings, and create a clean sound is harder than it looks.
What To Do About It:
Start with simpler chords, like E minor and A major, before moving to more complex shapes. Practice switching between two basic chords slowly to build finger agility. The more you switch, the more natural it will feel.
3. Guitar Scales Are Confusing and Difficult
Scales are essential for playing solos and understanding the fretboard, but they can look like a complicated maze when you’re new.
What To Do About It:
Ignore the complex stuff in the beginning. Start with one basic scale, like the pentatonic scale, and play it over and over. This repetition will help you memorise it and make sense of the fretboard patterns over time.
4. Music Theory Is Boring
Many new guitarists skip music theory because it seems dull or hard to understand. However, a little theory can go a long way in helping you know why chords and scales work together.
What To Do About It:
Learn just the basics—enough to know why chords sound good together. For example, understanding what a major or minor chord is and why it sounds the way it does can help you build songs and improvise.
5. Learning Songs on Guitar Is Tough
Most of us start playing guitar to learn songs we love. But, when you try playing along, you quickly realise it’s harder than it seems.
What To Do About It:
Start with songs that use just a few chords or easy riffs. Songs with two to three chords, like “Horse With No Name” by America, are perfect for beginners. It helps build your confidence and finger movement without overwhelming you.
6. Better Guitar Players Are Intimidating
Watching skilled guitarists can either be inspiring or downright discouraging. Many beginners end up comparing themselves, feeling they’ll never be good enough.
What To Do About It:
Use other guitarists’ progress as motivation. Focus on setting small, realistic goals for yourself, like learning a new chord or improving your strumming. Remember, every guitarist started exactly where you are now.
Yes, You Can Learn to Play Guitar!
While learning guitar can be challenging, the key is sticking with it through those early obstacles. Practice consistently, go at your own pace, and celebrate each small victory—whether it’s a clean-sounding chord or playing along with your favourite song. Soon enough, you’ll look back and wonder why those first few months ever felt hard at all.
FAQs About Guitar Lessons with Ben Makes Music
What is Ben Makes Music?
Ben Makes Music provides guitar lessons for all levels across Essex, including Rayleigh, Hockley, Hullbridge, and surrounding areas.
What types of guitar lessons are available?
Lessons cover a range of styles, including rock, blues, classical, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced player, there’s a lesson for you!
How do I book a lesson?
Booking a lesson is simple! Contact us online or by phone to arrange your guitar lessons in Essex, including Rayleigh, Hockley, Hullbridge, and beyond.
Are online lessons available?
Yes! High-quality online guitar lessons are available for students in Essex and beyond.
Are the lessons suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Whether you're in Hockley, Leigh-on-Sea, or elsewhere, step-by-step guidance is provided to help you get started on your guitar journey.
Where can I take lessons?
Guitar lessons are available in the following locations across Essex:
Guitar Lessons in Rayleigh
Guitar Lessons in Hockley
Guitar Lessons in Hullbridge
Guitar Lessons in Wickford
Guitar Lessons in South Woodham Ferrers
Guitar Lessons in Leigh-on-Sea
Guitar Lessons in Eastwood
Guitar Lessons in Benfleet
Guitar Lessons in Basildon
Guitar Lessons in Thundersley
Guitar Lessons in Rochford
Why choose Ben Makes Music?
Each lesson is personalised to meet your goals, ensuring fast progress and a fun, engaging learning experience.
Are guitar lessons worth it?
Definitely! Personalised feedback helps you progress faster than relying on free resources.
Can I try a lesson first?
Yes! Book a trial lesson to see if the approach works for you before committing.
Let’s get started on your guitar journey!
