I don't really think of myself as a "beginner" per say, but I suppose in the grand scheme of things I could look back in twenty years and realize that yes, this was the beginning of my career. A comforting thought.
Have you seen this illustrated video of Ira Glass, by David Shiyang Liu, talking about being a beginner? It's wonderful. So if you feel like you're trudging along and need some encouragement, look no further.
[vimeo http://vimeo.com/24715531]
(Lovely, animation as well!)
"Do a lot of work!"