If you had to choose just one word to describe successfully learning an instrument, what would it be? I suspect many people would choose  practice. 

I would in fact choose consistency. I believe you need to be consistent in every area of learning an instrument to be really successful. 

Consistent  with your practice. 

Consistent with turning up to lessons.  

Consistent with having the right books and your flute. 

Consistent with your tone exercises. 

Consistent with your technical development. 

Consistent with your articulation development. 

Consistent with your musical growth. 

Just be consistent in all areas and you’ll make headway.