[sobkas]

If you start with framework you might not learn enough to solve problems later, but using it later to simplify your config should be ok. For example ergoemacs http://ergoemacs.github.io/ is a nice way to make Emacs more ergonomic and easier to use(if having problems with default configuration).

[heyoni]

I think the only thing I couldn't live without is evil mode. I'd install that right off the bat. I'm using doom but it feels like it's doing too much behind the scenes for my taste.