Life is a struggle. However understanding what we want and what we need can make life easier.
I have learned to stop chasing what i don't need.
I don't need the latest phone,or another guitar,i don't need 10 paiirs of boots or 30 tee shirts..etc.
Find out what you need and separate them from what you want.

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
What It Means
An Open Invitation: Jesus invites anyone who feels tired, stressed, or worn out by life to turn to Him.
A Promise of Rest: He offers peace and relief for the heart and mind, rather than just physical sleep.
The Yoke: A yoke is a wooden beam used to join working animals together. Jesus means that walking by His side makes life's challenges easier to carry because He helps bear the load

Life is tough, but I still think my life is a precious gift from my mom, though.

I agree, especially as I'm currently helping my mother to deal with possibly serious medical problems.

I feel exactly the same x

Lifestyle creep, I'll never play that game. Life's a lot happier without it.

It feels like a constant barrage at times .. and yet I know I'm lucky compared to many

That would be too long of a wait. Plus I'd be unhappy all along. I realized that the things I need to make me happy have very little to do with the things I'm told I need to be happy.
And those things they say I need to be happy are the things I need to do to make them happy.
The purpose is to help others as I can and to try n have a good time. That's it. That's the point.

Just depends. If we didn't work what would we do all day? Sit around mindlessly?

It's the reason to help each other. To help someone else when you can so it's easier for them. The hope is they'll do the same for you when they can and when you need. But you're pretty much right there.