Here's my POB: https://pastebin.com/wAiy9yaf

This is my first character. I'd like to know which to improve , pl0x
This is what Im following right now: https://www.pathofexile.com/forum/view-thread/2685019
I seem to be dying a lot and would like to know what to upgrade.

The problem is you’re not a summoner. You need to be a summoner.

his gear has nothing to do with beginner friendly... and damage is pretty midcore.. only benefit his he take take a few hits.

as a beginner i would suggest a totem build or summoner, spell caster requires good investment for endgame content and some dodging if dps isnt over millions.

Would be it possible to pivot to a different lightning build with my current tree?

you can try an assassin based stormbrand build with Malachai's Artifice socketed with a fire or cold skill for -50 res.
i remember brand builds are pretty noobie friendly

yea as someone said before a totem build or minion build or maybe occultist vortex woukd be good starters