When I tried setting up a new computer I initially started with Windows. Going through that new setup process was such a pain in the ass with how Microsoft tries to connect you to their services. I just want to use the damn computer without any of these ‘extra’ services. Like, is it so difficult to have an OS that you can just simply install and use without any BS? Its what finally pushed me to move to Linux. Haven’t looked back since.
It’s really hard but I struggle to tell people about my operating system. I use Arch BTW.
Have you heard of the five stages of grief? That’s probably the best first way to deal with it. No capitalist/socialist/fascist/technocratic/authoritarian utopia will be able to fix that. I don’t believe there is a better system yet than what the western world already has. Maybe one day UBI will exist and everyone will have more freedom to enjoy their passions but even then it you’ll still have to work most of your life.
Best you can do is figure out what you want out of your life and take the steps to do it. Like what most people have said, living below your means helps with funding your goals and protecting yourself against accidents. Find ways to do what you want now but know there’s always a trade off. It isn’t fair but I don’t think it ever has been, except for a very privileged class of people.
I used to vape in college but afterwards decided to quit. Part of what made quoting easier was moving away and breaking from routine because for me it became a part of my day-to-day. The other thing that helped me was doing cardio. Running would suck so hard because my lungs had a hard time keeping up. That shitty feeling also helped push through cravings.
To go hang out with people in a cool setting while having alcohol-like drinks without the problems. Like going to a Kava bar or something, or tea bar. Bunch of places out there with themed drinks to hang out. Sometimes you like the taste of cocktails but don’t want to get drunk.