The Best Time to Play Guitar: Maximizing Practice and Creativity
When it comes to playing the guitar, the question often arises, "What is the best time to play guitar?" The answer isn't as straightforward as it might seem. Many guitarists believe that the morning provides the sharpest mental acuity and creativity, making it an ideal time for practicing and songwriting. However, personal preferences and daily schedules can greatly influence the ideal time to pick up your guitar.
Understanding Personal Variability
According to my experience and research, people can be categorized into different time-of-day preferences: "morning" people, "after lunch" people, and "evenings or night" people. Each of these types tends to be more productive at different parts of the day. For some, morning brings a fresh start and renewed focus, while others find inspiration after a midday break or late in the day.
Regardless of your inclination, it's essential to find times that align with your daily schedule. Life can be unpredictable, and it's often challenging to maintain a consistent practice routine. However, making time for your guitar, even if it's brief, can lead to significant progress. The key is to find a window when you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience of playing.
Scheduling Practice Times
For me, mornings are the ideal time to play guitar when I feel most refreshed. However, I enjoy playing at other times of the day as well. Consistency is crucial in developing and refining your skills. Instead of a few long practice sessions, it’s often more effective to break your practice into several shorter sessions. My personal experience has shown that a few 15-minute sessions throughout the day can be more beneficial than a single 45-minute session.
This approach isn't just about hitting the target, but also about keeping your mind sharp and engaged. Short, frequent practice sessions can help maintain your focus and retain information better.
Practical Strategies for Scheduling
Back in the working years, both my wife and I had demanding schedules. She worked eight hours a day, while I worked 13. On the days off, I tackled all the household chores, leaving little time for leisure. One day, I got up early on the first day off and played guitar. Before I knew it, my wife was coming home from work. This experience taught me that the best time to play guitar can be immediately after completing household chores.
Creating a Practice Schedule
Another important strategy is to find a time when you can have peace, quiet, and freedom to concentrate. As I mentioned, playing in a family setting can be challenging if your environment is noisy. A guitarist from a large family found his bedroom the only place to practice, but even there, extraneous noises could disrupt his focus.
Pick a time during the day when you can most easily create a dedicated space for practicing. This could be a moment in the morning, during lunch, or after a late-night session. The key is to ensure that you can fully concentrate on your guitar without unnecessary distractions.
Conclusion
The best time to play guitar is one that aligns with your personal needs and daily schedule. Whether it's early in the morning when you're most refreshed, after a midday break, or late in the evening, the key is to be consistent and seize the opportunity whenever it presents itself. Whether you're like me and enjoy playing at various times, or prioritize playing after chores, finding a routine that works for you is essential to your growth as a guitarist.
Remember, the best time to play guitar is whenever you can get in those practice sessions and immerse yourself in the experience. Consistency and dedication will bring you closer to your musical goals.