Hardships with same level questing as a Bard

[FunkYeahDragons]

Don't get used to running away. Get stocked on potions and get second wind, and maybe featherfoot. Having a healing chocobo will make your life infinitely better, as healing goes a very long way.
Aside from defenses, I say hit them harder.

Pretty much the strategy is to kill everything before it has a chance to kill you.

Don't even ask if it's a friend or foe, just stick arrows in it.