Do you have an objective?
Racing is a lot of fun. It's a lot more expensive than play riding, harder on the equipment, and has a higher 'risk' factor. If you're not racing for good results, why bother?
To be truly focussed, you need to have an objective or goal in mind that you're striving for. Entering and racing with the 'also ran' objective is counter productive. Save your money.
Search out riding buddies with a lot more experience than you, and are considerably faster riders. Go riding with them a lot. It will build your skill level and confidence at the same time.
When you go racing, go with the idea that you're there to do well, not just finish. Ride smooth (like the fast guys), and pass everybody in front of you that you can!
Have fun racing, and good luck.