Well if you need a lot of work in artistry, this is the place to go. People will point out your flaws, and if you are quite the defensive type it could get a little ugly, but if you're open minded and willing to listen to some great advice givers then hear this out
Before even bothering with shading and cool fancy background put on the bottom layer of your picture, I think you should work on keeping the symmetrical feel of your drawing. I know it's hard. If you're drawing by hand it's even harder. My suggestion? Use a reference, and if you did use a reference, well next time try tracing. As for what should use for a reference I'd go with your style of course. If it's anime, use Anime, if it's realism, use a real person. I assume you're trying for the anime approach. First you should decide what you're trying to implement, creating your own style is rare and not really necessary. Grasp the feel and the proportions of a characters face and worry about the details later. As soon as you get that, coloring and shading come naturally. (most of the time, some cases cause for exception)
I'd recommend maybe getting a tablet if you don't have a scanner, other wise draw your picture on paper first if you haven't already and scan it. Don't bother tracing and putting in effort until you know you're good for it.
If it's a passion, you'll continue on whether you listen to what I say or not. Don't you ever stop believing in yourself.
