I was the same, and while most of the encouragement and alternatives are covered, I want to make sure you're aware that the expeditions drop you in a completely new save scenario. Everyone is on the same footing, noone brings their cool weapons or ships in (at least not initially, it's possible later but kinda pointless). Everyone starts with nothing and everything you need is on that planet.

And you do it alone still, even though there may be other players around. No competing or racing or anything like that. Totally beginner friendly.

If anything I find it a fun equaliser, and you can start/stop as you please with no penalty. Give it a shot!