Although I've been pixelling for around 2 years now, I seem to have barely improved, and even gone backwards in some areas. Needless to say, this is really getting me down. Also, although my analog art is steadily improving, the pixel art seems to get worse and worse, like I only have so much talent and must choose between areas. I spend about the same amount of time on both art forms, so it can't be lack of effort.
Any tips, any reasons for this, would be appreciated.
Also, I wish to improve, so I have considered several courses of action.

1: Quit pixel art, never to return (I'd rather not)
2: Restart my learning of pixel art, beginning once more from the basics. (This course of action seems good to me)
3: Keep slogging on, trying to improve.
4: Take a break from pixel art.
5: Get some mad inspiration.

Any more ideas or opinions would be very much appreciated.

-Ragnarok

Edit-

Souly's lines, my colour and background. Much thanks to him.
As always C+C much appreciated.

This was made by me... I know there's something wrong and I need to modify it... Can someone help?