The past few weeks, I have been on a mission to be the best I can be with what I have. So, I have tried various things. I have singled out certain techniques to attempt to improve at. I have learned new songs. BUT, the most effective thing I have done for my playing is...*drumroll*...writing music! I don't know what it is. I feel that by writing my own stuff and figuring out how to use certain techniques in a way that fits my playing and writing, I have gotten better at it. I have also gotten better at writing songs. That is a given. The moral of my story, in my opinion, if you want to better yourself as a player, writer, and overall musician...write. I am positive there are other ways but I feel this has been the most effective way for me.