7 Ways to Stay Motivated While Playing Guitar

Feeling stuck with your guitar? Bored of playing the same chords over and over, or perhaps frustrated that progress feels slow? Every guitarist, from beginner to seasoned player, hits a wall at some point. But don’t fret! Here are seven inspiring and practical tips to reignite your motivation and keep your guitar journey exciting.

1. Rediscover Your Inspiration

Why did you pick up the guitar in the first place? Take a moment to remember the initial spark. Whether it was a favorite band, a legendary guitar solo, or the dream of playing with friends, revisit that inspiration. Listen to those songs again, or watch a live concert of your favorite artist. This small reminder of your initial passion can rekindle the joy and excitement of playing guitar, bringing you back to why you started in the first place.

2. Make Practice Effortless

Once the thrill of newness fades, picking up the guitar might start to feel like a chore. Avoid this by creating a space where your guitar is always within reach. Set it up next to your couch, on a stand where you can see it, or in a cozy corner with a comfortable chair. Making the guitar part of your environment encourages you to pick it up for a few minutes whenever you pass by. It’s like Sunday morning coffee—no fuss, just enjoyment.

3. Set Small, Achievable Goals

Big goals are exciting but can sometimes feel overwhelming. Break down your guitar journey into smaller steps, like mastering two chords a week or learning one song in a month. These small, achievable goals create stepping stones toward bigger milestones, giving you frequent wins and a steady sense of accomplishment. Progress might seem slow at first, but over time, each small success will add up to significant improvement.

4. Reward Yourself

Playing guitar isn’t always easy, and keeping yourself motivated deserves acknowledgment. Recognize the progress you’re making, whether it’s five minutes of practice or learning a new song. Set up a small reward system to celebrate these milestones—watch a favorite concert video, indulge in a nice meal, or treat yourself to new guitar accessories. Rewarding yourself keeps you encouraged, so you’re ready to tackle the next goal.

5. Stay Actively Engaged with Music

Learning guitar isn’t just about practicing alone. Expand your connection to music by listening to different genres, attending live gigs, discussing music with friends, or even jamming with other musicians. Being part of the music world in this way fuels your motivation and allows you to enjoy guitar in a larger context. Find ways to be an active participant—whether that’s dancing at a live show, sharing a favorite song with a friend, or playing alongside a fellow guitarist.

6. Learn from Other Musicians

There’s no shortage of inspiration and practical advice from other musicians. Watch videos of your favorite guitarists, explore tutorials, or follow live performances online. Platforms like YouTube and Ultimate Guitar Tabs offer a treasure trove of learning resources and insights. Seeing other musicians in action helps you pick up new skills and reminds you of the endless potential for creativity with the guitar. Here’s a classic to get started: Eric Clapton – Layla.

7. Build a Community

Playing guitar can be a solitary endeavor, but joining a community can keep your motivation alive. Music brings people together, and finding like-minded guitarists or fans is easier than ever. Join local jam sessions, explore online forums, attend music workshops, or even follow local bands on social media. You’ll meet other musicians and find friends who share your passion. A supportive community encourages you to keep playing, helps you grow, and makes the guitar journey far more enjoyable.

7 Ways To Stay Motivated While Playing Guitar

Staying motivated on the guitar is about enjoying the journey, not just reaching the destination. Keep your guitar close, set realistic goals, reward yourself, and engage with music on all fronts. Most importantly, surround yourself with a community that shares your passion and will lift you up when you need it. Guitar playing is about connection—between you and the music, and between you and others. So pick up that guitar and let the motivation flow!