Good to know that you are persevering!!
My experience from this hobby is this:
1) Decide on what you want to keep. I.e FOWLR, Reef e.t.c.
2) Research, study and plan. Understand and learn what you are going to keep and how to be successful, if not 98% will fail. Don't anyhow "cheong". My first time, I cheong, end up failing too . But second try, I research and learn/study (until my mother tot I taking exams!! ) and also save $$$ for at least 3 months before I execute my plan.
3) Try to use the best, or at least, reputable equipments.
4) This hobby is concern, patience is the keyword.
Just sharing my experience!!
Wishing you all the success!!!!