The main reason why the majority of young surfers loose is simply that they do not have the skills to be successful. In their “surfing package”, there are missing pieces, or skills that work in some surf conditions but fall apart in others.
In preparation - you think about getting fitter, sort your equipment, and possibly research all there is to know about your destination, so you are are fully informed before you arrive. You can also work on your surfing, so you are more confident when paddling out and surfing over unfamiliar reefs.