I just started playing a couple weeks ago with little experience in mmo's.
Here's my strategy.
We've got to get this drug problem under control in Paragon City. I was hoping Twinshot and her group could help, but that twist really threw us for a loop. I just joined the Midnighters, so maybe that will lead to some progress against villainy. Also, I put circles into the empty circles when it seems I need to get stronger.
Remember, it's a videogame not a job. The advancement system exists to facilitate playing the game, not the other way around.