I play guitar (not very well) and have found out that quantity time is much better than quality time with it. Some people have a natural knack for instruments, but not so much for me. So, it's better for me to sit and play with friends simple songs and notes and chords and work my way up from there. Muscle memory has to be developed first and also an ear for where which note is on the guitar.
From there, branch out to whatever different forms, but do not get discouraged at the progress of others. Keep at it! it's great fun to play with others and actually do a full song!
Oh! and get little tips from other guitarists on songs. This will improve your skills but also you can sound like a master by just little tweaks.
Good luck!!