Is it Normal Not to Enjoy Playing the Guitar?

Uncertainty and Self-Doubt in the Learning Process:

It's completely normal to feel a lack of enjoyment when learning to play the guitar, especially if you've reached a point where you feel stuck or uncertain. This can happen to learners of all skill levels, both beginners and seasoned musicians. Recognizing that it's okay to feel this way is a crucial first step in addressing the issue.

People have varying interests and preferences. What one person finds thrilling and joyful may not resonate with another. So, if you're feeling pressure to enjoy playing the guitar because others do, remember that exploring other hobbies or activities that you find more fulfilling is perfectly valid.

Consider giving the guitar another chance by trying different styles of music or playing with others. This can help change your perspective and reignite your passion.

Common Challenges in Guitar Learning

Learning any instrument, including the guitar, is a journey that requires patience, dedication, and persistence. There will be moments when your interest wanes, and you may feel less inspired to play. During these times, here are a few strategies that might help:

Find New Musical Inspiration: Hunting down some new guitar-based music can reignite your passion. Listening to different genres can provide fresh motivation and ideas. Engage in Cross-Genre Listening: Exploring other styles of music and trying to jam over them can provide a new perspective and keep your interest piqued. Collaborate with Others: Getting together for a jam with other musicians (not necessarily other guitarists) can also help you maintain interest and motivation.

Mandolosis: A Joke, but a Common Feeling

Whenever guitar players share picks, they are most likely experiencing mandolosis. This term, although humorous, highlights the common feeling of hitting a brick wall in the learning process. If you're finding it difficult to enjoy playing the guitar, know that it's not just you. Many guitarists experience frustration and a lack of enjoyment at various points in their journey.

Feel free to explore other hobbies that bring you joy. If you have no interest in harmonicas, pianos, or even other guitar-related activities like playing video games, reading, or enjoying sci-fi, take heart in knowing that it's totally normal to not enjoy everything in life.

Dealing with Boredom and Plateaus

Practicing guitar can be a tedious process, but the joy often comes as you make progress. Recognize that it's completely normal for practicing to be boring at times, but the key is to keep going and take breaks when you need them.

In my own experience, I started playing guitar at 12 or 13 and made rapid progress, but eventually hit a plateau. It became less fun and started to feel like a chore. Understanding that some downtime can make a significant difference, I took a break and returned to practicing with renewed enthusiasm.

Remember, as cliché as it might sound, taking a break from time to time can make all the difference. Whether it's a few days or a few months, know that it's okay to step away and return to your guitar with fresh energy. As long as you truly want to learn the instrument, keep going, but don't be afraid to take hiatuses when needed. Currently, even as a member of a worship team, I sometimes find myself getting tired of the guitar, so I take a few days off or try playing in a new style to add some diversity. These tactics can be quite helpful.