This game is fun but it can be frustrating.
Spend the time to get your equipment setup. You may find you need to setup up your views and not just the standard look right and left, etc. You also need to setup your stick to suit your style of flying.
You may think of this game as a very fast moving chess match. You enter the fight with a few moves already set in your mind. A split second later all of that goes out the window and you've taken the attack in a new direction. Or, you're on the defensive.
Spend some time in the training arena. Have a trainer assess your skills and perhaps provide some pointers.
Then, join a squad. There are many who are always in the recruiting mode. But, be picky. Join one who exhibit the same interests you feel you want out of the game. They are out there.
There are squads that have been in existence since '87. Long lasting friendships are made within the community.
It's all there. Just show up and start having some fun.
Ren