I am all about originality, but as a beginner it is helpful to learn other players licks and chord progressions so you can see how all the theory can be applied. This kinda lets you know what paths you can take when constructing a solo or song. Ultimately after you choose your next notes path, that becomes originality. The more different ways you discover to put 12 notes together, the more avenues you will have available for YOU to express yourself. I think a great example of this can be seen in the career of Trey Anastasio from Phish. By ever learning all the songs and styles that he possible can, he has developed one of the most unique styles of his own, and that style is characterized by the prowess to play in the sum of all styles. If you were aspiring to become a great chef, or martial artist, or dancer, this approach would apply also. Learn everything you can, then when you solo or compose, elements of what you like will come out as naturally as if I asked you to make me some soup. Also, jam with as many different players as you can. Everytime I sit in on a regular Friday night bluegrass jam here locally, I ALWAYS learn something, but I like mostly rock! I hope this helps. Oh, both Steve Vai and Joe Satriani have made Youtube vids on how to get the most out of practice.....worth a long look and listen. " bent my ear to hear the tune, and closed my eyes to see " Jerry Garcia/ Robert hunter............Peace