Just recapping the thread, lots of good points made already.
-spectate good players after you have died.
-hang out with people in teamspeak, they'll answer a lot of questions that in-game players can't be assed to type out
-try to look at why you died and what you can do to prevent it next time
Try to make your playstyle equal parts attack direction, footwork, and manual blocking even when you are using a shield. Just train yourself to move and block as if you did not have a shield. Even if you do stick with a shielder build, there will always be times when your shield is broken or you are facing someone that can break it in seconds.
Even if you really like the gear you have and it is loomed and you love it to death, try new items from time to time. You might find that a different weapon or lighter/heavier armor just feels "right." Especially after you have more experience and your playstyle changes.