In my experience the learning curve will become shorter the more you ride with other people. Ride with as many different people as you can; watch, listen, and ask questions. And like the other gals said, take a class if you can. Ride a lot.

It really is an individual thing as bcipam said. I know a couple of people who have been riding for years and can't get past a certain level. Fear holds one of them back. Fitness level hampers me aerobically (or I like to think it's genetics). I've made great strides on a personal level, but I'll never physically be able to ride as fast as many, many people. I hold my own when it comes to slower, technical riding.

The most important thing is to have fun. Enjoy what you're doing and you'll ride lots and improve no matter what.

Play in the dirt!