There's one major difference between this habit and all of the others I've talked about to this point: it is not an action. Every other component I've described so far is something you can do to become a developing guitarist (someone who is consciously taking the right steps to improve). Believing in yourself is a mindset, an attitude, a philosophy, and is more foundational to your success than anything you can do. There are steps you can take to becoming a more centered person, but in the end it’s a choice you have to make for yourself.

Have you ever noticed how guitarists like Steve Vai or Paul Gilbert are beaming with confidence as they hit the stage, waiting in anticipation to play their first note? This type of confidence and excitement can't be generated by any outside source. Both guitarists have technical command of their instrument, but their confidence doesn't come from that either. Someone's response to their ability cannot be the source of their inner contentment. Rather it is their unshakable belief in self that has caused outward change. If you took away Paul Gilbert's mastery of guitar, he would still be Paul Gilbert. If he decided that music was still the best outlet for his self-expression, he would probably find a way to make it happen again.

Self-discovery is not a linear process that I can outline for you. There is no blueprint to follow. You can't go from point A to point B and expect your results to be the same as mine. Still, it's a path I would encourage you to follow.

I remember when I first started playing guitar. While at summer camp I was hanging out with a friend who played guitar and he was playing some of my favorite songs. In that moment I decided that I wanted to play guitar too. A classical guitar had been given to me several years earlier, so the seed had already been planted (it's hard to ignore the synchronicities). Nevertheless, the point is that I was determined to learn guitar. It was a part of my identity before I was ever able to play my first power chord. I didn't question whether or not I had the capacity. I didn't ask myself if I had the talent. The fact that a lot of time was about to go into practicing, reading, watching and listening did not faze me. I was willing to do whatever necessary. This type of commitment is unwavering.

Have you ever made a New Years resolution that you didn't follow up with? Have you ever set goals for yourself that you haven't accomplished yet? I think we all have. In the long run procrastination is not an attractive solution. Either you need to set new goals for yourself (thereby realizing your true passion) or take a serious look at your priorities and self-confidence. Have you ever been in a place where you wanted to do something so badly that you were willing to go forward no matter the cost? In my life I can think of 4 or 5 instances where this has happened and my determination and perseverance paid off.

The point is not that I was a perfectly centered person. I still don't consider myself a fully actualized individual. This is an ongoing process and it can't be forced. The point is that it was important enough to me that I cut back on other activities I enjoyed, and further demonstrated my commitment by practicing every day I possibly could.

I can't tell you how many students of mine don't practice. I can't tell you how many of them tell me they were "too busy" (at a very young age too!) or couldn't bring their guitar along with them. When I started playing guitar, I couldn't keep away from it. When I went on family trips I insisted on bringing it along. Honestly I probably would have carried it on my lap if I had to. The discomfort of the journey would be temporary and I would get to play guitar at the other end. The reward would be worth it. What lengths are you willing to go to for your passion? This article was written by David Andrew Wiebe, web designer, graphic designer, guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, songwriter, guitar instructor, and music expert. Interested in winning a free CD? Click here for more info! Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Recommendations? Email me.

Published on January 15, 2008