GORDON posted:

I think "expectations" are a big problem. I've watched for decades the idea that one MUST go to college, one MUST have a job at a desk in front of a computer being clever and creative, and one MUST have all the creature comforts to which their parents made them accustomed right out of the gate, or it isn't worth pursuing.

1. There is nothing wrong with being an ordinary person with an ordinary job.
2. Almost no one starts out with 30 years of success under their belt.... your first apartment will be lovely.
3. Be a plumber. Be an electrician. Be an HVAC person. Your fingernails will be dirty, but your work will always be in demand, you'll charge $100/hour for your time with 3 years of experience, and you wont have crushing college debt.