I’ve just rekindled this journey, currently in module two of the beginner course. I’m in my 40’s and have been thinking about picking up a guitar again for the best part of a year, with increasing urges. After months of research and learning I finally bought a Fender Player Telecaster left-handed!
But my journey didn’t start here. As a teenager in the 90’s, I wanted a guitar for Christmas from my parents and was taken to a guitar shop, where I walked away with a Legend Stratocaster copy right-handed. I’m left-handed but I had no idea at the time that left-hand guitars were a thing, and I don’t recall being asked. I learnt a bunch a chords but I always struggled with rhythm and ended up swapping the guitar after a couple of years for a moped.
It took a lot of deliberation as to whether to try again with a right-hand guitar or start fresh with a left-hand guitar, knowing I’d be limiting my options by doing so. I’m so glad I decided on a left-hand. Strumming with my left hand feels so natural, and I’m coping with relearning the chords with my right hand quicker than I expected. I’m thoroughly enjoying the journey so far, despite the finger pain, and grin every time I pick up the guitar.
Welcome to the community Matt. Like you I’ve also just recently decided to play the guitar again in my 40s after a brief attempt in my teens. It’s such a joy to pickup the guitar again and especially with the great lessons by Justin. You’ll be riffing and playing along with songs and having a blast! Enjoy your new lefty guitar and this wonderful community
So, maybe this is a dumb question but is there anything that keeps you from reversing the strings on a righty guitar like Hendrix did? Something that you could do but maybe shouldn’t? I’m right handed so it’s not really a big concern, but I have often wondered… especially when looking at/drooling over guitars and seen a really cool lefty that wasn’t available (used gear for example) in right handed version. The pick guard would be pretty obvious but so many choices without a pick guard…
Things that make ya go Hmmmmmm
welcome to the community, great to hear from you. While there is some discomfort at the start, it’s well and truly worth it when you can play and make music all by yourself. Look forward to hearing more from you
Welcome! I’m also well into adulthood, and had a somewhat similar story, though not involving handedness. I took some guitar lessons in my early teens, but didn’t last very long until I decided to focus on sports instead. I left the guitar laying around for a couple of decades, but finally decided to use Justin’s program to start learning last year.
My biggest tip… consistency is key! Even if you don’t have time to do a big practice, just try to get in a little bit of playing every day, even if it’s just five minutes.
I guess that’s a possibility, would just need a new nut. Not sure I’d cope with the controls being in the wrong place though. I’m quite content with my Telecaster at the moment, until GAS starts calling!
Back in the 90’s I don’t think (apart from Paul and Jimmy) people thought there were any left handed players out there. Glad you are having an easier time with your leftie.
Matt, welcome to the community. Glad that you decided to go with the guitar that is the most comfortable to play for you. For left-handed practice look at Justin’s Nitsuj lessons at the end of grades 1 and 2.
Thanks Steve. I’ve realised I have a bit of a benefit playing left handed. When I watch the tutorial videos it’s like Justin is a mirror image of what I’m doing which is really handy, especially for chord shapes.
Welcome Matt. I am a lefty and like you tried right handed for a short while and never got on that way. Years later i started left handed and it feels the correct way for me.
Welcome to the community and great choice of guitar! I started learning on a Fender Player, but the Stratocaster, in sonic red and it has been great to play. Good luck with your journey, Susan
welcome to the Community 
). Have lots of fun and enjoyment on your guitar-journey! 
