Centre versus Flank attack openings.

I'm a big fan of both GM Simon Williams and IM John Bartholomew. Simon, through his Youtube posts, has inspired me to "be aggressive" and consequently I have begun trying the Black Lion Defence, so far, with reasonable results. However, the flank attack, usually down White's kingside gets complex and my modest rating (~1250) sees me struggling how to bring it home. 

John B. says that lower rated players like me should play a more central opening to get better acquainted with positional play and relatively more open situations. He pointed out that inexperienced players will often make a sac in a flank attack that usually doesn't come off. This certainly applies to me.

So I'm trying to decide whether I should revert to the French Defence which I'm getting a bit sick of with continuing mixed results or continue with the Black Lion at the risk of neglecting basic learning principles.  Really keen to know if others are/have been in this situation and comments please.