At the start of the journey testing is i would say vital, but it needs to be structured, so that you learn something from the results.
As a prediabetic, restrict the obvious carbs, bread, Pasta, Potatoes, Rice, Fruit, and any pastry. Test before you start a meal, and 2 hours after, if the rise is no more than 2 mmol, then that meal was fine, and should you have it again, then you don't necessarily need to bother testing it.
If the rise is more, look at what was in the meal. Protein and fat have virtually no effect on your blood levels, so only the carb content has affected things. Next time you have that meal, halve the carb part of it, but slightly increase the protein and fat, to compensate for the reduced calories, only IF it leaves you hungry. If the affect is no different, then further reduction is needed, if a good result, and you're happy, great. If not as enjoyable as before, increase the carb content by half what you reduced it by.
By reducing, or raising by half each time, that is the quickest way to reach YOUR bodies tolerance level.
The first 3 to 6 months, means a lot of testing, not painful when you refine your technique. Most of us here are far better than most health care professionals, because we feel it, so quickly learn where to prick to avoid OUR nervy areas, and setting the lancet to the minimum level needed to get a sample.
You will reach the point where you can look at a meal and just know if it's ok for you. Only needing to test new foods, and occasional tests just to keep an eye on things.
You will feel tired, because your body is not using the fuel you give it properly (Glucose), that is where low carbing comes to the fore, as it is changing the fuel source to (Ketones). As your energy levels improve, so will your mood.
It sounds a bit daft, but a prediabetic diagnosis, is really a positive thing. It means you have the knowledge to greatly improve your future health and well being, by avoiding type 2 diabetes, simply because you know.