I feel so weak!

So I have 10 hours in the game right now - currently exploring Weeping Peninsula - and I still feel so weak! Struggling even with big Mobs not to mention (small)bosses…

Currently i‘m mainly focusing on leveling strength so I can use better weapons but I feel like it does not really do much :/

Any tips on how to level quicker / more efficient, where to find good equipment early on, etc.?