I was taught the cowboy chords when I was in single digits. But I didn't actually pick up the guitar and want to learn it until I was just out of high school. 35 years later I'm still at it. I'm not good, I just don't have the disciplined practice habits required to make the jump to expert level, but I can carry a simple tune in a large bucket if nobody distracts me.
Honestly it's BUILDING guitars that is the strongest attractor for me. If I practiced playing with as much dedication that I apply when building guitars, I'd be a very good guitarist. I settle for being a very good luthier.