I understand how it feels to see people that you started with or started after you appear to be doing better than you. In as much as I consider myself inquisitive for most of my journey—I still am, though—I was lagging in many areas. I wasn't consistent and wasn't putting in enough effort. I was usually around anyway, observing and learning. And somehow, I got the hang of Hive and turned to be a full-time resident.
There aren't that many people that get all the information that they need to prosper when they are starting out, and it can suck sometimes. What matters is being willing and open to learn, and then what you do when you get the information. I'm glad you found this useful.