Solid strategy so far with quests?

Is it a big to reach lvl eight from doing side quests, hunting, and killing bandits before advancing the main quest “The Hunt Begins” ? I know there’s no real rush to finishing since there are plenty of side quests, areas to explore, etc. Trying not to finish the game being too-advanced.

Cheers!

Concerns have usually been about becoming too strong (combat wise) by midgame.

I personally avoid any kind of grinding to keep my game at a decent difficulty curve.