The "death grip" on the left hand refers to excessive tension or pressure applied when gripping the guitar neck, which can hinder fluid movement and make it difficult to transition between chords. Here are a few tips to help you unlearn this habit and lighten up your grip: Awareness: Begin by consciously recognizing when you are applying excessive pressure with your left hand. Pay attention to the sensations in your fingers, and make a mental note of any tension you feel. Relaxation exercises: Practice relaxation exercises for your hand and fingers before playing the guitar. Simple stretching, flexing, and shaking exercises can help release tension and prepare your hand for a lighter grip. Finger independence: Focus on developing finger independence and strength through targeted exercises. This will allow you to maintain a lighter touch on the fretboard while still producing clear notes. Incorporate exercises that isolate each finger and promote dexterity. Light touch practice: Set aside some time specifically for practicing with a lighter touch. Start by playing each chord slowly, consciously reducing the pressure applied by your left hand. Gradually increase your speed while maintaining a light grip. The goal is to retrain your muscles to hold the strings down just enough to produce a clean sound. Proper finger placement: Ensure that your fingers are positioned correctly on the frets, close to the fret wire. By placing your fingers closer to the frets, you'll require less force to produce a clear sound, and it will naturally encourage a lighter grip.