Beginner to POE, have 40 Shadow

Hi! So a while ago I started playing Path of Exile a year or so ago by creating a Shadow class with the intention of making a Flicker build (since that is still one of the coolest spells in the game). However, upon reaching a level in my early 40s, I realized that i was too squishy, wasnt doing enough damage, and it didnt really work out (I mean it was ok, very good early on, but not the best). So I stopped playing entirely since i couldnt reset my perks.

I decide to return to the game recently, only to find out that my perks have been reset, giving me a chance to start all over (but at the same level). And after some research, I didnt think flicker was the best build for a beginner. So, I am wondering whats a fun, decent build that I can play on my Shadow Class that is cheap (maybe if im lucky also include some of the items I have now?).

I do, however, have other questions. For instance, does it matter what my items are now if i change them later? If i decide that my new spec needs entirely new gems, how do i get those gems without forfeiting my ability to actually do dmg and play the game? I just feel kind of lost and would really appreciate some guidance.

Go over to the Shadow forums, near the top should be a sticky with a Guide consolidation. Look for any that say "Beginner" or "Low Budget"

Then pick which you're most interested in :)

Edit: Also, you can get all gems in the game from doing a side quest in the Library in A3. Just look up Library on the wiki, so don't worry much about that, most guides also give leveling tips and what to use/look for until you get to the end game where your build starts to come together.

Playing flicker recently became much easier for a beginner after they buffed Terminus Est and Raider ascendancy. You got a Shadow there so Raider isn't an option but you can still go for Terminus, it's extremely cheap too.

You should still fill yourselves in on fundamentals, of course, getting the build enabler item won't magically solve all your problems.

Some beginner/cheap shadow builds.

Freezing ball lightning - https://www.pathofexile.com/forum/view-thread/1802389

Cheap CwC Bladefall, Blade flurry, Cheap and for new players! - https://www.pathofexile.com/forum/view-thread/1863746

Low budget Arc Miner - https://www.pathofexile.com/forum/view-thread/1627825

Good clear speed and cheap Arc Miner - https://www.pathofexile.com/forum/view-thread/1728912

Full shadow build list located here - https://www.pathofexile.com/forum/view-thread/1772788

Hope you find what your looking for! :D

P.S. Just have fun with the game dont worry to much about becoming the best trust me you will have more fun :D

Thank you all so much for responding!

I think im going to finish the flicker build, and look at what is needed is the skill tree to make it succeed. If it doesnt work out thats ok, and il use one of the other builds that are on the beginner forum.
Really appreciate it guys!! :P