[Taera]

An idea, try to avoid creating partnerships with aliens - for the reason that once they see your colonies, they're almost sure to declare a war on you pretty soon. Its a problem with almost every single AI that had only recently been identified.

Also, are you playing with bonuses? If you do, try first playing without the bonuses. Even experienced players often find medium bonuses, with good AI's, a challenge.

What AI's are you using? Any mods?

And, welcome to the forums!