- buy level 1 runes from runevendor (10% more off / def)
- level martyr to your level (press the purple meditation symbol until the yellow progressbar in the left upper corner wont get any more)
- respec your talentpoints to full proficiency or a mix prof / brut (see my signature "hint for rookies")
- get the 4 hour potions in church / cellar
these 4 things above will make a HUUUGE difference
if you are in a dongeon (instance) summon mercenaries or wait until you are level 11
dont skip quests
use automove in case you are uncertain