The problem is too many people want the good life too soon. Live thrifty for a while and save some money. I didn't buy a new pickup until I was 32. Don't buy big stuff until you can pay for it. I took out a few car loans early on, but no credit card debt or other loans. Even later in life I wanted an automatic lawn irrigation system, but I waited until the stock market earned the money, then paid cash. The schools don't teach economics or how to balance check books, maintain credit cards and loans, they teach "higher mathematics", but the kids can't manage their money or count back change. Want proof? Buy something for say $3.47 and offer a $10 bill. After the young cashier enters it, say, "oh, wait, I have the change and give them the 47 cents". Now watch them struggle with the change. You will have to tell them to give you $7.00. That really is pathetic!