I grind professions, run OPR, expeditions, arenas, and open world elite zones… with friends.
That last bit is the key part. We’re not always playing together, but the together time makes the solo grinds meaningful and enjoyable. Luckily, making friends in game is easy!
Step 1.) Join a group or company. Ideally one with an active discord.
Step 2.) Be friendly and kind.
If that doesn’t work, repeat Step 1.) with other players until you find one that sticks. I play with a diverse group of people. None of us knew each other before this game. Some of them min-max theorycraft like me, some openly state that they’re terrible at the game (they’re not THAT bad). Doesn’t matter what their skill level is, they’re good people and enjoyable to be around. The good players in the group can carry the bad ones easy enough.
It can be intimidating if you’re new to reaching out to people. I personally don’t open up to people quickly. If you’re a good player, be tolerant and respectful of worse players (assuming they’re good people). If you’re not a good player, just be kind and friendly and that will carry you far.
OPR and joining random groups (I usually check faction chat for flagged groups) are a great way to progress in the meantime if you don’t like crafting. Also, just get your mining and smelting up for Asmodeum to make money so you can buy fancy gear.
I’ve been spending my time in pvp mode farming. It adds a little more adrenaline element to the game, even tho there aren’t many people flagged out there.
I’m not geared up yet so gold is a good thing and I’m not bored with exploring yet.
I don’t have any friends who play nor in a company right now. I hit 60 a week ago so what i do now is just join in Mines, Emp, Myrk, etc. and portal runs. (Besides leveling weapons/grinding to level for professions)
Edit: I haven’t done any of the lvl 60 dungeons yet also. Genesis the highest lvl one I have done.