In my cranky old age I actually prefer recording alone now on 'The Simpsons ' for example because I find that the director can just focus on what I'm doing and I can do a lot of variations. A lot of times when I record with a group I'll stay after class for another hour or two.
I think everyone shares a fear of failure - that you're only as good as your most recent collection. That's definitely a fear but it's a fear that fuels me that makes me want to work harder that makes me take on more challenges.