I just finished the Story in Ding Dong Dell, at the beginning. Now, rather than continuing on with the story I'm using the guide to point out as many side missions as I can. This is the only time I'm using the guide too. So if I'm in a dungeon or doing something story wise, I leave it alone. Then once I'm done with that section, I pick up the guide and go hunting for items I might have missed, quests, etc.
AND yes, I'm that far behind everyone else.