Steps to getting better
1) Take xbox, throw out window
2) Go to frys, or newegg.com build yourself amazing gaming PC (eyefinity [3+monitors] highly recommended), make sure to install mods
3) Get yourself a nice wheel, I am partial to the Logitech G27, but I am also biased (seems to be a theme of this entire post)
4) Use your first season as a "gimmie" season, "difficulty" set to amateur, assists taken off as you feel more comfortable, main objective setting a "rival" choose a rival based on the team you would like to race for
5) MAKE SURE to beat said rival in points
6) Start next season in "faster and more maneuverable car" of your choice
7) Be prepared to be disappointed at end of second season when you have to switch teams to another high ranking team because your rep is not high enough
8) Disregard steps 1-3 if you like
Other option
Select a team from the beginning, play a season or two with that team, end up with great fast and maneuverable car