Do I really have to use my pinky finger to fret?

I’m sorry to say that yes, you absolutely have to use your pinky finger to fret. 

It sucks at first. It feels weak and awkward. And it’s like that for everyone in the beginning. 

But it’s a super important fretting finger used in every single style of guitar playing. Over time it will get better, faster, stronger… until eventually, it’ll feel just as strong as your other fretting fingers.