<prompt> Human: I have an associates degree in general studies and dont want or plan on continuing with a bachelors degree. I work in an office and gross 30k, I take most of that home because I dont have much tax liability. Still, I have not moved out of my parents house and dont see how I can support myself. Sure I could live in a shack and eat ramen everyday, but thats no way to live. I think some people in their early 20s have to do that in college or a few years out of college and then get raises or better jobs, but I dont have those prospects. My income will likely stay the same for many years or just small COL increases. Heres an example of why I dont feel like I can support myself comfortably: with my work I would be able to get a 20 discount off market rent in the Seattle area. So lets say I go 30 mins out of Seattle and get a small 1br, with the discount it would be 900. Then add internet, utilities, and electric, bringing the total to 1050. Groceries and gas add 320. Additional expenses are 400. Thats a total of 1720. Soon I will have to pay for my own car and health insurance, so lets say those are 100 each. Grand total of 1920 for the month, nearly all of my take home pay. I do get thousands back as a tax return, but those go straight into a roth IRA. So, thats my predicament. Someone is going to say...make more and spend less. So, to make more I really do not have job prospects to make even more. I am not qualified, I dont have a Bachelors or any special skills. and spend less, I really do feel that the above budget is already bare bones. Even with the rent discount its still high, and trust me there is nothing cheaper. What do? Am I doomed to a life of poverty?  <response>: dont want or plan on continuing with a bachelors degree.and I am not qualified, I dont have a Bachelors or any special skills.If you decide to just give up on advancing yourself right here and now, then yes, you are going to live a life of dependence and poverty.If you decide thats not for you, then either go back to college and get a bachelors or go to a trade school and get certified in something. Highly skilled labor is paid well in this country, whether its finance, design, or welding - you name it. But you cant get an income designed to support yourself not to mention any potential spouse or children until you decide that you are worth the investment. 