[hharney]

Personal minimums are very important when experiencing IFR flight initially in the early phases of experience. The importance of discipline is the factor. It does no good to set a smart, safe personal minimum if you don't stick to it. I think it's best to have a good discussion with your CFII about the level you should mark and why. Then as the experience builds that level is adjusted to a practical mark. But the mark is respected and followed.

There are so many flights that I canceled just because of my personal minimums. As others have said there are other factors that mix into the decision of the flight. But a personal minimum on ceiling and vis is the most important.