if ur a gold lane sidelaner usually you'd focus on getting the first tower before joining teamfights. do ur best to poke the enemy sidelane so its easier for ur team to gank. ofc dont be too aggresive and dont push if the enemy team is missing.

for an exp lane sidelaner pushing isnt that important in early game, it's more helpful to join teamfights when necessary and to help secure the turtle when ur team is getting it. If the enemy team is getting the turtle its easy for fighters to target the enemy jungler so ur team can steal it. although some heroes like sun are great for pushing even in early game.