Need Help Getting Back on Feet in Clash of Clans!

Hi, I've been playing Clash of Clans since early 2013, and playing the game, upgrading, and leveling up was a breeze. However, in September 2013, I took a break until March 2014, when I was around level 50-ish. Ever since then, the game has been a lot harder. For example, I'm always losing raids, Leveling up takes super long, and it's very difficult to get the gold/elixir to upgrade things. I have half of the base level 6 walls, also I spend a few days raising up for a single upgrade. I see people level up super fast. For example, I joined this clan when I was level 62 with a guy the same level, and when I hit level 64, he hit level 70. 64 is my current level too, so I am wondering if anyone can help me out. This guy is way ahead of me and he was around level 30 when I was level 50, so I need help fast. Thanks.

Alright don't worry about other peoples progression compared to yours- Focus on your own base. Also put your town hall in the corner of your base for a free shield so other people don't take your loot! When you attack , focus on going for loot only. Hitting abandoned collectors well probably be the main source of loot for you. For farming attacks i would recommend Barch (barbarians and archers) for collectors and giant healer for hitting storages. Also get in a good clan to give you more advice and good troops!

Sounds like me.

I got back into the game with BArch, and I'm grinding skulls no problem now. Just gotta focus, find a supportive clan (the FA family *cough*), and you'll be moving quickly again.