hi there..

Many of us started by learning a few chords and simple songs. Some take lessons, or learn from a friend. There are method books out there, and many good lessons on this site. I have done all of the above!! I learned a few things on my own, from friends, and took 2 or 3 lessons.

Think of a a few songs and try to find tabs or sheet music of them or lessons on this site in that style of music.

Don't worry about being a lefty... Paul McCartney and Jimi Hendrix are 2 of my favorites. Rik Emmitt from the band Triumph is a lefty, but plays guitar righthanded. Try both and see what works for you.

Like mentioned books and dvd's do make it easier learning. The hardest thing can not be taught, that is the learning of strummimg and keeping time, that is the main stumbling block for new guitarists. Just don't get discouraged, if you keep at it, you will get it. Learn 3 or 4 chords and strum a pattern to resmble a song, and practice, practice, practice.

There are some rules for chord changing that helps. Keeping time is a different matter. Suggest you make your hand that fingers the chords to work in time as well. Attack on the beat and then a release of tension. The fingers however stay on the strings in position.

Charlie

Just curious, are you playing a lefty or righty guitar? I've met some lefties who play right hand guitars for many reasons, such as they didn't know better, they wanted to have better selection at stores, easier to follow tab/vid, etc

David, I made the change 4 years ago from left on righties, to left on lefties... smartest thing I ever did. Eventually when you see a right handed player, you will automatically think of your pick hand and your fret hand, not left or right. Go for it. Lefties are very available, maybe not in your average git store, usually 2 or 3 maybe, but most any reputable manufacturer will make lefties. I just bought my 11th. Special ordered a Michael Kelly Custom Patriot, quilted maple,amber cast, full rich tone..can't put it down. Being left handed is not a curse, just play everyday. you'll see.

Kenny in Kansas

Dave, first of all, I'd like to welcome you to the world of guitar. When you start to lean any new skill, not just the guitar, realize that to get better, you have to invest the time and effort that the skill requires. The guitar is a magnificent instrument and once you learn the basics, it will amaze you with it's intuitiveness and fluidity.
That said, I always recommend that new players take at least a few professional lessons, a good teacher can teach proper practice techniques and show you the basics that you must master to succeed on your own if you choose that route. Above all, make the most of your practice time. 30 minutes of good practice two days a week is better than practising everyday with no clear goals. Secondly, seek out other players, I think you'll find that we take care of our own.
Good luck Dave, and if you need any insight, feel free to drop me a line, I'm happy to help.