Difficulties in forehand looping

I have been playing ping pong for fun for about five years. After one year, my forehand loop stopped improving. I want to get better, even though I have no intention of playing competitively. I have watched multiple videos on the forehand loop, and I have practiced that shot each time I play. However, my shot feels awkward and flat with a bit of sidespin. I know that I should have a brushing motion but for some reason I can't do it. I only feel confident with my looping motion when there is no ball to hit. Are there are any mini exercises that will guide me to the correct technique?  

Hi Brian,

Think about the tension in your shoulder during the stroke.  I find that this is one of the biggest causes for problems with the shot.  When you are swinging without the ball there is no tension.  When you are hitting the ball just focus on the shoulder and see how much tension there is during your swing.  This will help you to keep the correct angle of your bat on contact.

Give this a try and let me know how it goes.