Sometimes when people reach a certain age, they start doing odd things – at least according to the outside world that’s watching them. They might buy a motorcycle, start ballroom dancing or pick up a guitar and wish to play! Some people call this the midlife crisis, while it could simply just be the newfound freedom people enjoy as children are beginning to move from home!

Sometimes the feeling of following your heart is overcome by the fear of ‘being too old’. It’s easy to think that things like playing the guitar are just for the youngsters. But is it really true?

The Benefits of Learning When You’re Older

The truth is you are never too old to learn. In fact, there are a number of advantages to learning to play a musical instrument when you’re a bit older.

First, you are learning to play for the right reasons. You are probably passionate about the guitar and you aren’t doing it just to impress others. Being motivated is crucial for guitar success.

You’ve also done many new things in your life already. You know new skills require you to work hard and you know how to deal with frustrations.

Playing the guitar isn’t just about learning a new skill or getting a career in the world of music. Older guitarists often pick up the guitar just for the love of music and for the social aspect of playing music.

The Reality Check

While there’s nothing to stop you from learning to play the guitar, you need to be realistic as well. Playing the guitar might not seem like the most physical activity in the world, but your fingers are going to be screaming for help at some point.

As your body is already getting a bit older, you need to pay good attention to the right posture, technique and most importantly, rest. If you listen to your body, take your time learning and practicing, and give your body enough rest from the playing, you can do it!

Soreness of the fingers is something every guitarist will go through, regardless of age, but you need to be aware of it before you get going!

Finding the Right Tools

The most important thing when learning to play the guitar, whether you are 14 or 40, is finding the right tools to boost your learning. You might be shy in talking to guitar tutors or taking a lesson with a bunch of teenagers, but you can learn in many different ways.

Online music lessons, for example, are a great way to skip reading music theory books. You’ll also get to play from the comfort of your own home, so you can practice whenever you want and you won’t feel judged!

There are also plenty of music forums for older players. You can exchange ideas and even get together to play! If you are still not convinced playing the guitar is possible, read about the Guitar Zero, psychologist Gary Marcus.

You are never too old to show your passion for guitar music. Just follow your heart and start rocking!