This thread is connected to another in my mind: Goals, to have them? Most responders thought doing what you want, when you want, is the pleasure of quilting and that it should bring you joy. I taught all levels of sewing classes at a community college, so know lots. However, when I take a class I am often the worst student in that class -- don't understand, can't follow, too slow, etc. Still, when I get home I can make award winning quilts, sometimes using what I learned in a class, sometimes not.
I've come to the conclusion that what I produce in class isn't important. It's what I do with the information that is important. As a teacher, what I cared about was allowing the students to learn -- in a way that made sense to them. What I care about for myself is learning, improving, and enjoying the process.