This forum has definitely made me a better cook... It took a little while to get it, that the IT is really what matters, and there are multiple ways to get there. There are things that I will generally cook the same way every time (pork butt), but because I know the end result is going to rely mostly on the IT, I'm not afraid to try it another way and see how it alters the final product. I've learned to slow it down if I want the grizzle and fat to break down, I've learned tricks to speed things up if I am short on time, and I've learned not to stress about a "recipe", because smoking/grilling is like an art form and doesn't need to be exact.
I enjoy about trying different rubs, injections, woods, etc... and am still learning how they affect the final taste/texture/look... If you can only follow a recipe, I believe you lose out on most of the joy in cooking.