I was glad to see somebody finally mentioned the right needle! Depending on what you are quilting on...and the thread...you MUST have the correct needle. I found when first beginning, I got some fabric with large prints and practiced following the lines. It gets you used to watching where you are going...not where you are right now. Thats a big key...don't look at your needle, look at where you are going next.
Drop your shoulders to relax. When you feel them tensing up..make an effort to breath and drop them again (take a huge gulp of wine)...then off you go again! Have fun!