Alternative methods as you call them are something with little to no precedent, and they are possible only thanks to technology, that's why we see mostly young people trying to have a lifestyle completely different than what is traditional, because young people are the most heavily involved with the latest trends in technology.

What you say about the job's salaries not being enough is true man, especially in poor countries like ours, most of the time its not worth it to put 8 hours of your day (plus the time you lose with transport) to receive so little money that's not enough to have the life everyone wants. Its really depressing to watch professionals earn less than 50 dollars a month here in my country, people that studied for at least 5 years in the university, and besides have years of experience, yet, have monthly earnings smaller than a meme upvoted by dmania...

I think just as you said, we are very lucky to live in modern times where technology offers opportunities to everyone to improve their live. We just need to identify them and be proactive enough to take advantage of them.

Cheers man!