The following precepts were written in order to give the more advanced guitarist some advice beyond that of how to actually play the instrument. The author considers them essential pointers on not only how to keep your playing constantly moving forward, but also on how to keep it fresh and original.
The notion that practice makes perfect is a popular one. Unfortunately, it only rings true if the practice method itself is executed perfectly. Play with an incorrect or sub-standard technique for hours on end and eventually it will become a permanent part of your playing. What's more, as things get trickier, you'll reach a technical plateau that's very hard to move on from. The essence of good practice is time and patience. Lightning fast licks, for example, are achieved by giving every aspect of the technique involved it's due care and attention, then performing these actions, rhythmically exact, at a fraction of the tempo. Once you become totally familiar with what's involved you will be surprised at how easily it can be sped up. Make speed the focus of your attention, however, and the technique will never come... you will only serve to seriously hinder yourself.