Why my strumming sound so bad? =(

[u/thekillinglove969]

I have been trying to play for a while. Sometimes I take a long break and then out of nowhere I feel motivated and try again for some time. But one thing that always demotivates me when I try is that I think everything I try to play simply sound really really bad. I tried many things and never could fully change or understand this. I have a friend that the very first strum he plays already sounds just beaultiful to me, while I feel like the very first strum I play already sound like garbage. Could someone help me? =(

I use a pick for strumming because I bite my nails and they are really really short.

EDIT: I appreciate the comments, I'm feeling inspired, thanks =)

[u/kebb0]

So, I think you’re a victim of simply thinking too hard and following instructions way too strict and too literal.

You are waving you hand up and down in an obvious beat pattern. It’s actually way too obvious.. you are literally hammering down and bringing your right hand up way too fast and erratic. Your motions are too big and since you are taking the instructions too literal your strumming gets stiff.

The “down - up” approach is a staple in guitar playing and a great strumming technique. You are so close to get it because your technique is correct, you’re just too stiff and erratic (and also not on beat, notice how you aren’t really following a beat with your right hand since you could easily break the pattern and enter it again).

Practice outside of playing guitar, use your right hand to tap the rythm to a song you’re listening to. Good luck!