+1. No need for the contest. This hobby is all about passion. A contest is not something that should get you down.
Ask this question: did you get into this hobby for this contest or because you wanted to?
If 2nd part is your answer, then just take things slow. I am a newby like you (been four months or something) and till now, I have faced quite a few bumps but nothing has let me down; and I believe its worth it
If 1st part is your answer, well its your call then