I think self-pride is the big barrier to overcome.
As a relatively new beginner to Bluegrass style and Banjo/Mando… my inner voice says all those things about not being good enough. I struggle with this too.
Side note: I somehow find it encouraging to hear professionals (like @BanjoBen and others) admit they experience nerves… like people on the Voice coaching segments.
Heck, I think I even Del McCoury say he gets nervous on that awesome Toy Heart Podcast (soooo good)… when he plays the Opry after all these years.
Dare I suggest, if Del can be nervous, then this is just normal.
Another perspective…
I think the comment or thought of not being good enough raises the key question… not being good enough - for who?
In this context, I feel like it changes because I have played with a few beginners who - because they are just starting - are not (could not as an absolute beginner) be at my skill level… (even as most real players with experience ARE better than me).
Here is my point…
Never once… did I EVER think badly about the person who was trying and applying themselves to play with me. On the contrary, I enjoy finding the very simplest “common ground” to play with them… to jam in the most basic way.
So… Unless any of us have a real negative experience with someone who is beyond arrogant (AKA - a self-absorbed JERK) - which I expect is exceedingly rare for any true music fan, I would think most “better” players to be far more accommodating of our (limited) skills then we are.
It is hard to separate the feelings of this self-pressure we put on ourselves but I offer this because it may help all of us accept our playing and just move on.
Then, we can play with less fear and feel accepted just for the level of skill we possess… be it significant or simple.
Submitted for your (everyone’s) consideration…