If you are looking for drills to do, the one that I found was the most useful was the 6 ball drill. Rack for 9 ball, break for 9 ball, then remove the lowest 3 balls and play the last 6 balls. If 6 balls is too hard to run, take out the lowest 4 or 5 balls. this simulates a game and gets you use to shooting for shape, and lets you practice your break.
I have seen the above recommended on AZ a lot.
The other thing I can recommend that really helped me when I was starting, was finding someone who enjoyed pool and playing every week. I play Saturday afternoons at around 1pm to 5pm, and just play against higher level players. when I started in a race to 10 i was getting 1 game maybe. Now in a race to 10 against the same player, I get 6 or 7 games before he gets 10, and occasionally I win a race.
The other thing i did when i started playing more seriously 4 years ago was go in not expecting to win, but try to make your opponent sweat. if you have low percent shot, or are nervous, go for a safety. Build some confidence by forcing them to give you ball in hand. I always get a chuckle out of a good safety. Set an achievable goal, and realize that losing is not the end of the world.
I also don't gamble. i am don't feel i am good enough to compete on the field, and i hate the idea of having someone take advantage of that. I know plenty of people who quit after a bad action match. Just not my game.