Your Callouse are one of your very important tools. And in my opinion there are no "really" bad techniques. But back to the subject, Your callouses will develope more over time, they will become harder as you develope them (development relates to amount you practice or play) I have had my callouses for about 23 years now and they are hard as a rock. But you must take care of them such as never play your guitar after you have soaked your hands such as washing dishes, showering etc. The harder they become the more these problems you are suffering will lesson but it does take time and some pain and lotsa practice. hope this helps