Remember that sparring is learning. You know this. But it is also best measured in look back moments, over time.

At some point in the future you will be sparring and realize those that were dominating you, you now are their equal, or are now on top, while others once far behind you are pulling in closer. It is quite gratifying to see the progress in these 'aha' moments.

One of my best look back moments was with a regular sparring partner I had. We started sparring when I was 13, him 22 or so. Him the best boxer in our city, one of the better in our country. He used to kill me obv. But yet we sparred 3 times a week without fail. Losing, losing, losing, but learning. Several years, many lumps, bruises, and often humiliating spars later, the gap had all but closed. Little by little. Then the 'aha' moment, when I realized I was now if not even, but maybe a bit ahead. It made it all worth while. Not that I could compete or beat him now, but that I realized how much I progressed. We are good friends, btw, not some rivals or enemies. And I owe a lot to him for where he has helped me get to.

In turn, I see others doing that through me. Progressing, learning. Closing the gap.

So I guess the point is, patience. It will be frustrating, but also, there will be pay offs. Those look back moments. You'll know it when it happens. And it'll be worth it.