I have been puzzling over playing guitar for close to 50 years and it is only now beginning to make sense to me! And I’m a pretty bright guy, IMHO. I can tell you what helped me was focusing attention on modal scales and the notes on the 5 and 6 strings. But understand this- it’s easier for some folks for sure but I don’t know anybody who gets the neck without a lot of hard work. You’re in good company, certainly. Keep at it!