steady progress

I've actually lost count of the number of shaves I now have under my belt - I think its seven or eight, but the main thing has been that each one has been better, in one way or another, than the last.
My advice for anyone new is to limit yourself to what seems comfortable, and then maybe stretch yourself just a little bit at the end - try a new area, or a different approach, etc. And if doesn't seem to work out very well, just leave it for next time. I think I've had the least good results trying one area too many times in one shave; I just end up with either a cut or a burn. I've had much better success doing some research here on why I had a problem and coming at it with a fresh start the next time.
This weekend I did my first fairly complete ATG shave, after hardly even trying an ATG stroke previously - I just built up t a point where I felt confident trying it, it went well, so I continued, and continued, and continued....
My other piece of advice, is to take your time - I make sure I have lots of time and just let myself enjoy the whole process for however long it takes. Which is no problem since I enjoy it.
I should also give thanks to the many, many posts here providing any and all sorts of advice - I've been able to find answers to almost every conceivable question I have had.

Chris

That is very good advice imho.

Bob

Glad things are gong well.

Great advice for any newbies, take it slow and enjoy the experience. The speed will come with experience.

I totally agree. I'm right with you as a new SR shaver and have found that not rushing and gradually upping my shave as I increase my knowledge base is the way to go. I rushed one SR shave before work one day and it was a very unsatisfactory shave. I now reserve DE shaving for those times when I can't shave without watching the clock. I've got 21 SR shaves under my belt now and my confidence level has really improved. I can't wait until tomorrow to work on something new for getting closer on my neck.

Kevin,

I agree the neck is a place for a lot of experimentation - I still am always trying new angles, new approaches, places to hold with my off hand, to be able to do a half decent job on the neck. But its getting better. My DE is getting used less and less these days.

If you don't succeed in getting a close shave on any part of your face or neck don't worry. You can try again tomorrow. Don't be afraid to try new strokes. You will find what works for you. Enjoy the ride.