Was just browsing through my gallery and felt the need to show a side by side of my progress. This is why you should never give up.... Dear god my work from a little over a year ago was atrocious lol Just.... wow.

FYI
I never used tracing to better myself. I got better by studying human anatomy and making use of 3D models. I rarely used anothers' art for anatomical reference. I also learned better techniques for line art and shading through watching streams of artists that are more advanced than me.

I recommend these mobile apps. They are a couple dollars but it is so worth it.
Pose Tool 3D
Mara3D (has a bunch of different models)