Getting back into an instrument?

[visualdeity]

I finally had a duh moment, and realized this forum is the ideal place to ask a question that's been on my mind. I play guitar (or rather, used to), but haven't played for a good few years now. I've been fiddling around with my guitar recently, but finding it very frustrating. Not only are my calluses gone (nothing to do about that, unfortunately, at least it's an electric), but I can't play stuff any more. Even basic chord changes (say, from a G to a C chord) elude me, my motor skills have just degraded that much. This is ASTOUNDINGLY frustrating, because I remember how to play everything I used to be able to, I just... can't do it any more. This is so frustrating that it makes me just shelve my guitar, and give up on playing.

Anyone have any advice on how to overcome this nasty roadblock?

[Bakkster]

Play songs that you like and tough it out. Not sure what else to tell you.

[visualdeity]

Yeah, it makes sense. I just dread having to go through the whole learning process again, as I train my fingers to move their arses (o.O). Was hoping there might be an easier way, that's all. ;)

[sonicbrew]

I finally had a duh moment, and realized this forum is the ideal place to ask a question that's been on my mind. I play guitar (or rather, used to), but haven't played for a good few years now. I've been fiddling around with my guitar recently, but finding it very frustrating. Not only are my calluses gone (nothing to do about that, unfortunately, at least it's an electric), but I can't play stuff any more. Even basic chord changes (say, from a G to a C chord) elude me, my motor skills have just degraded that much. This is ASTOUNDINGLY frustrating, because I remember how to play everything I used to be able to, I just... can't do it any more. This is so frustrating that it makes me just shelve my guitar, and give up on playing.

Anyone have any advice on how to overcome this nasty roadblock?

My advice to you would be to warm up first. Run scales up and down the neck. You can do major or minors, 3,4 finger frets. Go slow and alternate picking. If going up and down the neck from lets say fret 1-15 bothers you, then find a comfortable area(maybe frets 3-5) and run the scale from top to bottom and back again. It gets old and frustrating but it will limber you up.

The worst thing you can do is try to pick up your guitar and blaze off chops if your out of practice. Remember, first and foremost, have fun. Music is about self expression, passion, creativity. Take your time and build up your stamina. Heck I shred skin weekly and have to put my axe down for a few days and I have been playing for 34 years now. I dig in hard when I play though, so I am rough on my hands. Good luck and have fun!