I have been trying to play these damn things for almost a month now. I have been doing hand exercises to build strength and stamina. I have consulted various sources for tips (holding index finger as close to fret, repositioning the thumb, slightly bending the index finger, etc.) and NOTHING works. If I hear another muffled string I think I'm going to destroy my guitar!! Needless to say my, patience has run out. Can anyone please suggest something I can do to improve my barring? Any suggestions would be most appreciated.

Thanks