There's always the uncertainly that the sculpture may not turn out the way I envision. Doubtless it has forced many good artist to give up and others to be depressed. The desire to be perfect is an insurmountable hurdle. In my earlier days I would spend days on one sculpture and sometimes return to it weeks later to make improvements. . I have found this to be true.
Carving is a feeling similar to writing a final examination.
The concentration and stress is considerable, because one always has to think in two and three dimensions. Once a piece of stone has been removed it cannot be replaced. Artists are akin to hermits. Most are solitary and prefer to work alone. However, once finished with the piece of art we have to come out of the closet to seek reaction by a family member, a loved one or a close friend.