The Perseverance Myth: Is It Normal to Give Up on the Guitar?

Musical instruments can be challenging to learn, especially for adults who are not used to being bad at something. The guitar, in particular, has a high learning curve, but many give up after a few months or even years. Is giving up normal, or is perseverance the only path to success?

Is Giving Up Normal?

It is completely normal to feel frustrated and want to give up when learning the guitar. Many people have been there and come out on the other side. My own experience has taught me that hitting an obstacle is inevitable, but eventually, we get over it. The key is to keep going.

The Hardship of Learning an Instrument

Learning an instrument is difficult, especially as an adult. In fact, it can be as challenging as learning how to walk. However, many people give up on learning the guitar just like they give up on learning another language or going to the gym. Dedication is key, but many lack it.

As we age, we are less accustomed to being bad at things. We often expect perfection in music, and even a slight deviation from the correct pitch or rhythm makes a performance seem defective. In contrast, in sports, imperfections can add excitement and humanize the performance. In music, however, perfection is expected, and any deviation can be noticed.

The Temporal and Ethereal Nature of Music

Music is a temporal and ethereal art form. Unlike sports, where mistakes can be corrected or an athlete can take a break, in music, there are no breaks or do-overs. Musicians must continue performing, regardless of their physical condition. This is why it is crucial to practice consistently and perseverently.

Learning Levels and Plateaus

The guitar has many levels, and how quickly you learn can vary widely. You can pick up a few chords and play hundreds of songs in a few weeks or months. Advanced techniques, such as fingerpicking with hammer-ons and pull-offs, can take years to master. Hitting a plateau is common, especially when learning new techniques. Teachers can offer encouragement to help you overcome these challenges.

The Benefits of Daily Practice

The key to success is consistent, daily practice. Half an hour of practice every day is better than 12 hours on Sunday. Consistency and perseverance are the keys to improving your skills and enjoying the process of learning the guitar.

So, is it normal to give up on the guitar? Absolutely, but is it worth it not to persevere? The answer is no. Keep practicing, and you will see progress. Good luck, and don’t give up!

Keep Practicing!