Why You Shouldn’t Take Guitar Lessons (Yet)

As someone who teaches guitar, it might sound strange for me to say this, but guitar lessons aren’t for everyone. At least, not right away. If you’re thinking about signing up for lessons, it’s important to ask yourself a few key questions before diving in. Lessons can be incredibly helpful, but only when you're in the right place to benefit from them.

Here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t take guitar lessons, yet, and what to consider before making the leap.

1. You’re Not Sure Why You Want to Play

If you don’t have a clear reason or goal for learning guitar, lessons can feel like a chore. Are you hoping to play worship music at church? Learn classic rock riffs? Write your own songs? Without a personal motivation, lessons may feel aimless instead of exciting.

Before taking lessons: Spend a little time exploring the guitar on your own. Watch a few videos, try some things, and figure out what excites you.

2. You’re Not Ready to Practice Between Lessons

Taking a weekly guitar lesson won’t help much if you don’t touch the instrument in between. Lessons are a guide, but real progress happens during your own practice time. If you’re not ready to carve out even 10-30 minutes a day, you may end up frustrated and discouraged.

Before taking lessons: Try committing to a few days of self-guided practice to build the habit.

3. You’re Looking for a Quick Fix

Guitar takes time. If you’re hoping that a few lessons will make you instantly great at playing, you might be disappointed. Good instruction will speed up your learning and prevent bad habits, but it won’t replace consistent effort.

Before taking lessons: Adjust your mindset from “quick fix” to “long-term growth.”

4. You Learn Better by Exploring First

Some people thrive with structure. Others need to experiment and explore before they’re ready to follow a lesson plan. If you’re the type who likes to “poke around” before committing, that’s okay! You may benefit from a little trial and error on your own before working with a teacher.

Before taking lessons: Try some riffs, chords, playing by ear, or whatever interests you. 

So, When Should You Take Guitar Lessons?

• When you have a clear goal (even a simple one)

• When you’re ready to commit to practice regularly (even for a few minutes a day)

• When you want feedback, structure, and faster progress

• When you're done spinning your wheels and want direction

Lessons work best when you're ready to invest time, energy, and curiosity - not just money.

Final Thoughts

If you’re not quite ready for lessons yet, that’s okay. Take your time, enjoy the process, and come back when the motivation feels real.

And when you are ready? I’d love to help you take the next step. Whether it’s building better technique, learning your favorite songs, or understanding music theory, lessons can give you clarity and momentum — at the right time. If this is the right time for you to consider lessons, feel free to email me at [email protected] with the word LESSON as your email title.