To bring a counterpoint, I've worked very hard for 6-8 years. (5 years studying but also working on the side at programmer during the time) That surely simplified some things and now another 8 years later it's very easy for me to find a reasonably well paid job. On the other hand I came to realize I'll always have to work on mediocre things unless I continue to put in a sustained effort into it. (Work place politics included because everybody wants more of a limited resource, be it money or interesting tasks) Luckily I studied mostly out of interest but the effort put in was surely out of pressure

Going back in time I could have just continued to pursue that side gig, go for other freelancing jobs and do my own (hopefully paying) projects on top. Quite likely I might go for this myself soon again