could it be that you are using lead-free solder? that's almost impossible to use without precise temperature control and it's the most common source of annoyance in recent years with hobby soldering
Today, I won't even plug in the iron if I can't find my flux first.
Hey kids - don't listen to the old geezers (though I'm one too). Get lead-free and figure it out. It's really just about getting in reps, and caring about the results.
In my personal experience, leaded is maybe 5% easier.
If you're doing hobby level work, it is definitely not worth having lead around getting into and onto your other stuff and possibly being licked by kids or pets or whatever, and turning your projects into hazmat.