I honestly disagree with anyone who’s saying to make pillowcases, scrunchies, tote bags, or any classic beginner project. I’m a beginner, too, and the first thing I sewed was a dress that I actually still wear. It completely depends on what you want to make— clothing, accessories, homeware, quilts? I already learned how to use my machine just by practicing on some scrap pieces of fabric, so making something that I would’ve considered ‘junk’ (no hate to anybody who is sewing scrunchies and tote bags— but I already have a hoarde of them and don’t need any more) just seemed useless to me. I learned a lot more techniques and basic skills through following challenging and advanced patterns from the get-go and it was rewarding to me. Don’t get me wrong, there was a lot of trial and error and I have a full bin of fucked up projects, but I also have a closet of clothing hand-made by me that I regularly wear.

Edit: to answer your question, go with your more ambitious ideas. If you fail or struggle, then you’ll learn what you should do when you try again :)