Yeah, falling down isn't really all that much fun is it

? There are a few things that will help you right off the bat and they are:
1.) If you're riding in clipless pedals (i.e. the kind your foot clips into) you need to get rid of them asap as they will hinder your progress in the long run. I can go into more depth if you wish, but I will leave it at that for now
2.) If you're riding a cross country bike, as many newbies to the sport do, you should push your seat all the way down. When you have the seat higher, it will be harder to bail and will also make balancing the bike harder because there's less wiggle room for the frame between your legs.
3.) Don't try moves too far above your skill level. Trying harder moves is a great way to improve your riding ability and is an important part of the learning process. However, doing moves far beyond your skill level, or dangerous moves before you're ready can have the reverse effect, shying you away from similar (even easier) moves for fear of getting hurt.
4.) If you have a suspension fork with a lock out, lock that puppy out. It will help improve your balance, and save energy because you won't be pogoing around everywhere.
5.) If you're getting off balance, hop in the direction you're falling to get your bike back underneath you. This is a somewhat mentally challenging concept for quite a few people I've taught personally, but once they get it, they can stay on their bikes long enough to attempt a move.
6.) If you're in a position where you can rest by putting your pedal down on something, go ahead and do it. You can then better position yourself for the next move and/or catch your breath. When you're tired, you're much more likely to fall.
7.) Call me mike and you can come riding with us.
Bill