Learn using a method or with a teacher or both

As they say, any plan is better than no plan.  When it comes to learning guitar, there are a few options to consider: using a guitar method, working with a teacher, or a combination of both. As a beginner start by choosing from three basic styles: acoustic, electric, or classical guitar. Once you've made your decision, finding a guitar method or teacher who specializes in that style can greatly benefit your learning journey. A method provides a structured learning path and covers a wide range of topics, while a teacher can provide personalized feedback and guidance. By using a method, a teacher, or both, beginners can ensure they're on the right track and making progress in their guitar playing.

Write out a list of songs you want to play

It's important to be patient but I recommend you write out your perfect song list. This will help you to stay clear about where you are going. If you decide to learn with a guitar teacher you can show them your list and they will be able to suggest songs to learn when the time is right. Writing out a list of songs you want to play can also provide motivation. One day when you can play those songs you will be able to see how far you've come and what areas you still need to work on. Overall, writing out a list of songs you want to play is a simple yet effective way to keep your guitar practice sessions engaging, motivating, and productive.

Create a practice schedule

It may seem obvious but very few beginner guitar students keep a practice schedule. Keeping a practice schedule is crucial for beginner guitar students for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to create a routine and habit, making it easier to consistently set aside time for practice. Additionally, it allows for better time management, ensuring that you're making progress in all areas of your playing. Without a schedule, it's easy to neglect certain aspects of your playing or only practice what you're already comfortable with. Finally, keeping a practice schedule helps to track progress and identify areas that need improvement, allowing for more targeted and efficient practice sessions. Overall, a practice schedule is a simple yet powerful tool that can greatly benefit the learning journey of any guitar student, from beginner to advanced.

Focus on what is most important

A solution to the problem of doing too many things at once as a beginner guitar player is to prioritize and focus on key areas. Instead of trying to learn everything at once, focus on one or two important areas that will have the most impact on your playing. For example, start by mastering basic chords and strumming patterns before moving on to more complex techniques. It's also important to practice regularly and consistently, rather than trying to cram in hours of practice in one sitting. By prioritizing key areas and practicing consistently, beginners can see real progress and build a strong foundation for their guitar playing. Additionally, taking breaks and allowing time for rest and relaxation can help prevent burnout and keep motivation high.

Slow down and enjoy the process

Learning guitar can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, but it's important to keep the enjoyment factor in mind. One way to make guitar practice more enjoyable is to remember why you started playing in the first place. Whether it's to impress your friends, play your favorite songs, or just have fun, keeping your goals and motivations in mind can help you stay focused and motivated. Additionally, it's important to find ways to make practice fun and engaging, such as incorporating games, playing along with your favorite songs, or learning new techniques. If you're not enjoying the process of learning guitar, it may be due to a lack of progress, which could be the result of not focusing on key areas or not practicing consistently. By prioritizing key areas, practicing regularly, and finding ways to make practice fun and engaging, beginners can ensure that they're making progress and enjoying the learning process.