If I can give one piece of advice to other magicians, it is to practice. If I can give another it is to believe in yourself, to be determined. To become a good magician, Practice, Practice, and Practice. (You should also get a copy of "Mark Wilson's Cyclopedia of Magic" and then PRACTICE some more.) The self determinination will help you on stage. It is the most important thing to keep one from screwing up. (You could also just pretend your practicing front of people) Another product I suggest is the set of three Jeff McBride card videos. They can really help you out when it comes to close-up.