During work sessions, 16 random cards appear. When a card is clicked, if you didn't have the item it showed, you get a negative effect, which is losing some xp. Getting too many negative cards also affects total earnings for that work session.
Try to make sure you stay stocked on items to prevent the negative cards from appearing! The 'restock' shop is where you can find those items.
Before you try combat, make sure to spend your level 1 SP (skill points) at the level up menu!
Usually DEX is a good idea. It helps your golems land their attacks.
Next is STR, as it also affects your golem's dmg output.
Avoid fighting non-food enemies at low levels. They attack HP instead of Hunger.
I recommend fighting yellow foes (they have a yellow name) until you get enough levels as your golem's orange element is effective against them.