I think that the one piece of advice that I would have for a noob that finally has a bit of a grasp of the program is the same that I'd give to us more seasoned vets as well as the "professionals."  We all hit a creative block of some sort at some time.  So find a steady source of inspiration.  Locate your muse and feed her well.  This will frequently help you get past those "well crap, what do I render NOW?" moments.