If you find bar chords hard to learn buy a set of the hand grips. I sat for hours playing with those things but I must stress that they have helped me emensly. You should really stick at learning the proper bar chords but you can cheat on them! Instead of playing the full bar put your first finger on the first srting (Instead of all the way across) and then carry on with the chord shape. I must stress here do not use this technique forever. Use it untill you can play the full bar without your hands aching and then find the most comfortable way for you. I play bar cords with three fingers for jazz and that is all you need, but in time you will discover all of this. If I can be of anymore assistance please dont hesitate to send me a p.m.
All the best and good luck!!
    Pete.