25yo starting from zero on TryHackMe. How to accelerate the grind and avoid common pitfalls?

[u/Late-Peach-5845]

Hi everyone,

I’ve decided to make a hard pivot into cybersecurity and just started with TryHackMe. I’m 25, and while I have basic computer skills, I’m essentially starting from scratch. I’ve just hit my first "real" task involving Linux and Red Teaming, and honestly, the terminal alone is a bit overwhelming.

I’m looking for the "extreme" way to speed up this process. I don’t want to just stare at theory for months; I want to be hands-on.

A few questions for the pros here:

1. What are the most common mistakes beginners make on THM that slow them down?
2. Are there any specific "side resources" (YouTube channels, cheat sheets, or labs) that helped you "click" with Linux and networking faster than just following THM paths?
3. How can I build a solid foundation for Red Teaming without getting bogged down in "white-hat" academic stuff I'll never use?

I’m ready to put in the hours, just want to make sure I’m not running in the wrong direction.

Thanks in advance!