What difficulty are you playing on??
I've only ever played the harder difficulties and it is beneficial to (not have to optimise), but know a good direction you're going with your character..
I would say that means specialising in skills (don't do jack of all trades), and maybe even saving a level or two of skill points until you realise some points you need for more advanced skills or whatever..
You don't need to spend each point as you get it!
