In most games, leveling up is simple: number goes up, you get stronger. In Elden Ring, numbers go up, but sometimes they hit a "soft cap" and stop doing much of anything. Or worse, you split your points between Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, and Faith—a "jack of all trades" approach that usually results in a character who is a master of none and a victim to all.
Using an elden ring build calculator allows you to visualize the ROI (Return on Investment) of every single Rune. I remember my first playthrough; I dumped 40 points into Vigor thinking I was invincible, only to realize I hadn't put enough into Endurance to actually wear the armor I wanted. I was a tank that couldn't move. Don't be like me.
Focus on your Vigor early. While damage stats like Strength or Dexterity look tempting, your weapon's "base damage" is usually enough for the early game. Surviving a second hit from a boss is worth more than dealing 5% extra damage.