... and note to self ;)
Practice, patience, perseverance, discipline... zen.
Everything is combination of politics, lobbying, getting connections, bribery, corruption, exposure, recognition, branding, propaganda... Quality sure helps and matters most to real experts. But main thing IME is to never limit yourself within a single idea or mono-culture ;) There's never a clear border. As you have chosen, you are, or strive to be 'visual artist' consequently becoming master of "light and expressing matter" which by itself encompasses 98% of spectacle 'seen' as human life.
First, start relieving yourself of fear, angst, pain. Wake up and eat good.
Don't show your weaknesses (yes, work on your quality). Use words scarcely. Communicate with imagery.
Tend to stand your ground. Be character. Think critically, argue reasonably.
Complement with compliments.
Stay humble letting others enjoy your presence as you enjoy theirs.
Don't be scarred to make mistakes as experiences gained will make you less prone to new ones.
Finally, perfection comes when one is ready to let it go. Wabi-sabi.
Rinse, repeat... stay organized, ready and sleep well.
In practice do, as Odd Visionary states: "Always use reference."
Know, behind everyone there's loved one. It's why we can stand balanced on shoulders of giants.