I've done the FMQ practice, practice, practice and a couple of things I've noticed that have helped me
Use a larger needle
Try different threads...some machines are picky and only like cotton, for instance
Rethread the machine and change out your bobbin..use a newly wound one...if the needle is breaking. Even clean around bobbin with an artist type paint brush helps sometimes....to get out the lint or dust, etc.
Don't give up!!!!
If frustrated, take a break.
Practice drawing the shapes on paper to get your rhythm of moving the fabric and drawing with the needle...that helped a bunch. I'm FINALLY getting better.