I started a week ago, or well started again cause I always kept quitting for years only drawing once in a blue moon. I couldn't care less about AI. I am trying to create things myself with my own hands. If AI is whats stopping anyone then they should think about why they want to create Art.

Beginner artists draw because they want to draw. People who do not possess this want usually don't become artists.

Artists can always compare themselves to someone or something better if they want a fresh dose of depression. But AI is a pretty small fish compared to, for example, Art Station, where you can find the entire world stacked against you ;)