Hi I'm new here but I'v been playing for about 5 years.It took me about two months to move power chords(couldn't even play teen spirit!ugg..a cold shudder...)and I can't quite remember how long my progression actually took but I do know it took me a long time to get down any proper technique.but when I did I flew through it.I started playing metal(slayer..etc) and that really forced me on in leaps and bounds.Now all I want to play is Flamenco but hey.Look at your favorite guitarist(no doubt that will change many times over the years)and how they stand,hold the pic,fret hand positioning and mimic that as close as you can.I have found this really helped me when I was listening to Metallica,I wanted to play like Kirk Hammet and I found this really improved the way you play the music out.hardcore study for one year can do more than mediocre "hobbie playing" can in 3,trust me on this,I kick myself for time wasted! :)