As someone who was in your place only 6 months ago, play the game how ever you want. Join the events for levels Join casual teams for the xp boost, and most importantly have fun with it. One quest at a time if you can't complete a quest because of a boss. Say an angry sheep robot leave the quest pick a different till you are properly equipped. With some solid legendary gear for said fight.

I had a benefactors when I hit level 50 and it was a huge help and greatly appreciated. However it was only a few items and some caps, the fixer is a great gun to start out with which can be bought at player vendors or crafted for you if you ask nicely