[itake]

I think you are correctly identifying the problem, but implementing the wrong solution, by your own admission.

> People start appreciating the task. They finally see hints of progression in their abilities. Are able to work for longer stretches at a time before running into something frustrating.

This part hits the nail on the head. Appreciating the task and enjoying the progression.

To me, trying to make this experience happen earlier is the solution to the problem, not creating artificial constraints that dance around the problem.