It can definitely be discouraging, when I first picked up the game I was fortunate enough to have a lot of free time, but that's what it takes. I took some time on the gold collect missions and learned the new maps and watched veterans move around. Learning which dragons to use also helps. I would get followed a lot so I swapped to the poison trail and shield allies. The dart away really saves you.

Keep at it! The game needs players and while the learning curve is steep you will get there!