Ambition will, and should, always outstrip achievement.
one learns best, and writes best, in a state of defiance.
The prophets of doom, in my experience, are generally ignored and usually right.
Be bold, but not too bold. Have courage, but not too much.
Only one thing registers on the subconscious mind: repetitive application - practice. What you practice is what you manifest.
Never defend yourself; agree with your critics, it takes the wind out of their sails.