In answer to your last important question: Yes, I would. In fact, I did do that. I never chose the normal road, despite the protestations of my father. I was called a hippie for not having a normal 9-5 job, for not getting into debt or having a credit card and for living in a cooperative commune.
And I can say that I was far happier and far more abundant in that state.
I achieved far more of the things that were most important to me and lived with far far less stress.
I decided to try the 'normal' way of living for the last few years and I must say that I have been the least happiest of my entire life.
More things - less time.
More stress - less friends.
More security - less passion.
More exhaustion - less health.

So I'm at a new crossroads.
And taking definitive steps to trace my steps back to that path of less is more...

Great thought provoking article, my friend...
Thank you...