Hi,
Pirkei Avot 6:5 teaches that Torah is acquired in 48 ways, which it lists for us. The thirty-sixth of the 48 is mitracheik min hakavod, to distance one's self from honour.
Certainly, one who is motivated by a search for honour will be vulnerable to mistakes in his learning as he looks for ways to find honour instead of making sure his learning is solid. Further, one who seeks honour will grow frustrated, for it will be difficult, if not impossible, to find sufficient honour to justify his efforts. Further, one who seeks honour through Torah actually cheapens the Torah he studies.
More, though: Beyond the trait of not seeking honour, one must actively avoid it in order to succeed in his studies, for one who allows himself to indulge in honours will find his time, energy and focus for Torah study reduced. Others may be obligated to honour him, but he is obligated to avoid accepting it (politely, of course).
Have a great day,
Mordechai
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