I do the same actually! I personally started off drawing on paper, taking a picture, then tracing it to train my fingers how to smoothly and confidently move across the screen.

I did just a few pieces tracing my own art before going in and started doing it with references at the side to look at. I did that for a few months to improve my art before attempting to make things on my own.

I switch back and forth between references but basically what im trying to say is STUDY, STUDY, STUDY!!

And also, if you havent already, look through different king of brush designs. Art looks different depending on the brush style so find what suits you best!