Anyone playing Pogo, give me some tips... lol

Are the gems you speak of the coins obtained by defending a gym? It's a grueling journey where you barely get one after holding out for 10 minutes, so I doubt even you could do it easily. I shall silently watch your fighting spirit as you endure and roam the battlefield.

Just spin Pokestops diligently, hit up gyms, and complete your missions! (But I'm a beginner too haha)

Like the first commenter said, I think you mentioned coins as gems. As the commenters above said, you can just enjoy spinning Pokestops and catching Pokémon. There are often local Pokémon GO group chats, so it's good to get information there if possible.

There's a lot to do like battles, raids, catching Pokémon, and quests. If it's not fun, try doing events or something.