First, was your razor honed and made shave ready after leaving the factory? You didn't do badly, but you might want to go a little easier until you get a better feel for wielding the razor - being able to put it where you want, how you want, etc. Maybe just do the flat parts of your face and then expand from there. Go for a comfy shave and let the closeness come on its own. Kind of like in boxing when they say work the jab and the knock out will follow. Welcome to the dark side

Jordan