All of the above. No-one is born a Jarvis.
1.Don't try to ride too fast, concentrate on balance and control, the speed is a natural progression.
2.As above bike time is better than anything else.
3.If someone comes past you, try and stick with them for as long as possible.
4.Look for grip, the most used line is not always the best.
5.Get your suspension set up and fit decent rubber.
6.Don't be frightened of 'giving it a go'. The worst is you will fall off.
7.If in doubt, ask, no question is a stupid question if you don't know the answer.