Its really hard to compete with the big dogs these days. Once upon a time, in the early days, I remember when anyone could partake. But now it is very hard to turn a profit.
So even when u use nicehash or a mining pool, it's very hard to get your money back?
using a mining pool or nicehash doesnt matter, you cant expect a %30-40 percent return if bitcoin prices dont change. If you think the prices will increase so you will make money from mining by that than go buy bitcoin instead of mining equipment.
Also I dont believe that you are using 0.26cent/kwh electricity that is extremely expensive. You are calculating something wrong or you are getting robbed.