Welcome to a new Monday post with 3 random thoughts on all things guitar, music, and life, including thoughts on the power of deadlines, Denise’s inspiration, and more.
#1 – Deadlines are powerful
The new Dan Thorpe Acoustic Academy offer and book launch are coming to an end… today.
I know the Academy is not for everyone, and that’s okay.
…But one thing you’ve no doubt heard me mention a few times is how important deadlines are.
If you have a goal, set a deadline to achieve it – do that and you’re far more likely to achieve it.
I set a deadline to get the new book out and the promotion complete by April.
…And I’m pleased to say I’ve done it.
Without a deadline, things would have taken way longer – that’s just the way I am.
But instead, the book is already in the hands of many students and helping them improve and have more fun on the guitar.
Speaking of deadlines, one thing that happens every time I run an offer is this…
Once the deadline hits and the cart closes, some will email me asking If I can make an exception and let them join.
The answer will be a polite but firm “No”.
Many people have taken time out of their busy schedules to make the effort to sign up on time.
…And the simple fact is, for me to let others join after the deadline would be unfair to those who made the effort to join on time.
I wouldn’t be comfortable with that.
…And to be honest, I think many of you will agree with me, sticking to one’s word in life is very important.
#2 – Cancelling!
This month has easily had the biggest influx of new members the DTAA has ever had.
…But one thing that is important to state – getting my new book is part of the big picture.
The book is just one cog in ensuring your long-term progress on the guitar.
One person bought the book, paid for it and the postage, and then immediately asked to cancel the Academy… without even logging in.
Well, I did cancel it for him, but I also cancelled his order and refunded him the shipping fee.
After all, as I’ve said before, for anyone to just get the book on its own is pointless.
Getting the book and not at least fully trying out the DTAA is like getting a car but asking the dealership to take off the wheels.
The book and DTAA are designed to work hand in hand – together.
That’s why I’m not selling this book as a “standalone” book and never will.
Books are great, but as I’ve said before many times, they often work far better when you get video lessons to help see how things are done.
An example of this is the testimonials from the many students who have purchased both the book version and video version of Fingerstyle 101.
…And as I mentioned before, it actually costs me money to send out each book and bundle.
I am happy to cover the excess costs for DTAA members who are an amazing bunch of dedicated folks, and I am happy to cover the excess costs for those who are genuine about trying the Academy.
But I am not happy to cover the costs for people who want the book and bundle but have no intention of giving the Academy a proper go.
The bottom line:
If you were just to get the book and not try out the DTAA, you’d be missing out on so much.
I know 99% of you are genuine, honest people, who truly do want to get better at the guitar, but there are always a small percentage of folks who don’t think like that.
#3 – Denise’s inspiration!
Speaking of amazing members, Denise is an inspiration.
After six years of struggles, Denise elected to take a different path on the guitar.
And now, this week she has become a member of the “5-song club”.
Now, in case you don’t know, one big goal I encourage students to achieve is this…
To be able to play five songs to a good standard.
If you’re already a super competent player, that might seem easy for you…
But the truth is, many guitarists aren’t at that level.
Instead, the world is full of folks who try for a while, and then give up the guitar because it can be hard to learn.
Thankfully, most of you are different.
Now, this is not some overnight goal – it pretty much takes all guitarists a few years to be able to play five songs to a good standard.
But finishing five songs off will give you confidence, self-belief, better skills, and an impressive repertoire of songs to jam both for you and others.
The benefits are countless.
Of course, it takes patience to get there.
…But even those who can already play five or more songs don’t always get much recognition from others.
Most non-musicians just don’t understand how much time and effort we put into our playing.
Well, whichever camp you fall into – the raw beginner or seasoned pro…
You may want to be part of the ‘5-song club’.
Because when you join this club, you’ll get rewarded for your efforts…
Just like Denise has been recently. DTAA members can watch and be inspired by Denise’s video in the Member’s Area.
…And if you’re not a member already, remember, the Academy will teach you the songs, tools, and techniques.
Find out more about the Dan Thorpe Acoustic Academy
Dan Thorpe
Guitar Domination
P.S. Important! Please be aware that we are running very low on the books and bundle right now.
If you have ordered already, your bundles will be on the way to you… but if you haven’t ordered yet, please be aware that it may take around 3-4 weeks to get your bundle to you if you order from now on.
It may not take that long, but it takes time for the publisher to get everything printed, the pick manufacturer to get the picks made, and then everything put together and posted.
I didn’t expect this many people to take up this offer so please be aware of this before purchasing.
P.P.S. This post was originally taken from Dan Thorpe’s private email list. To get blog posts like this sent to you which are full of great tips to make fingerpicking, strumming, and learning guitar more enjoyable (especially if you are over 40) join Dan’s list. It’s 100% free, HERE.
