a continuosly positive attitude goes a LONG way. You wouldn't want to pit with someone negative at an ultra competitive event where stress levels are high and run times are limited.
Stay positive in the face of hardship and negativism. Show a sincere willingness to learn and practice as hard as you possibly can. Give tons of respect to those who obviously know more and are proven to be faster than you.
And try to put your own goals to the side when you see new drivers comming to the track. Help them out. I've learned more about racing by assisting other drivers who have absolutely no clue whats going on. Its one thing to be told how to wrench/drive but another entirely to tell someone else how to wrench/drive. give it a shot.
good luck and stay positive.