It sounds like you were happy with the shave readiness when you first got the razor. So, since it's now a month later, it probably needs a bit of a touch up. There's likely no need to go to the 4k side of the Norton at this point. After you lap the stone, just do a handful of laps on the 8k side, strop and then do a test shave. If it's still pulling a bit, do a few more laps on the 8k etc.

You're right that honing is not rocket science, but it does take practice and a light touch. You've got the tutorials and the only way to practice is to do it. So, good luck and let us know how it goes.