Excellent comments.<p>However there are times to build up slowly and approach things slowly, such as when the activity carries a high risk of serious injury.<p>When I went through Basic Airborne Training we praciced every step possible on the ground over and over before setting foot in a plane, and I wouldn't suggest doing it any other way.<p>Similarly, I am just now starting to learn to ride a motorcycle.  I know I can't stay cautious forever, but I am building up in small steps.  I started with a closed course safety class to get my license, then I rode at fairly low speeds in my low-traffic neighborhood a little bit before going out on city streets.  Still haven't taken it on a highway yet.<p>With that said, where the price of failure is relatively low, then be bold, experiment, and accept that you will fail many times before becoming good.  It is the fastest and most thorough way to learn.