I've been at it for 60 years and here's my thoughts: If you've not done any/much shooting you need to go to a range where they rent guns and try out several types to see what feels best to you. If necessary, get someone there to tutor you a bit. I wouldn't suggest starting out with a heavy weapon unless you are certain you can carry that comfortably all day.
Then consider how you want to carry it. I use OWB as about anything bigger than a tiny 380 sags my pockets too much. If you use OWB holster, get a wide stiff belt. Makes it way more comfortable.
For a newbi, a revolver is hard to beat. Its gonna fire every time you pull the trigger. Most autoloaders do too, but can
be more problematic for beginners.
I carried a Ruger LCR 38spl for a good while....very light, can shoot +P bullets. Stings the hand, even with regular loads, but does the job. A five shot, very lightweight, about 17 oz. ABout $350.
I recently transitioned back into autoloaders. Lots of excellent ones out there. One I used was a Ruger LC9s...a 9mm, 17oz empty, fires any bullet without fail, right out of the box. Hard to beat product. About $360.
I'm currently carrying, at various times, 3 Kahr's: a 380, 9mm, 45acp. Holds 7, 8, 7 bullets. About 12, 17 & 21 oz empty. I like their long smooth trigger. They are not for everyone and can be problematic until they've been shot a lot to break-in. I had no issues with any of mine, but a few folks do. Each of these cost from $340-375 approx.
Another outstanding 9mm also in the 17oz range is the S&W Shield. Gets rave reviews on gun forums. About $360 also.
Same weight but less expensive and gets good reviews is the Bursa Thunder 380. Made in Argentina or Brazil I think. Under $300. Find used for $250 or less.
Don't underestimate the 380. It will penetrate gelatin 8-10 inches. I can carry mine all day and not know its there. The 9mm carry's well too but you know you've got more weight and have to hitch the belt a notch tighter.
Get on Highroad gun forum and start reading up. Go to gun shows and fondle the products.
Good luck and let us know how it goes.