1) I second anigbrowl's "see a shrink" comment. Having an adviser, particularly when you are young, is very valuable.
2) Read some Stephen R Covey books. The best thing I ever took from Covey was his statement about life "To live, to love, to learn, to leave a legacy" When I question myself, I ask if I am fulfilling one of those 4 goals.
3) Stay out of debt! Debt will ruin you.
4) Don't wait for tomorrow. It never comes. (To live)
"we saw what happened with cars"
What does that mean? I drive a Leaf and its the best car I've ever driven. I've practically forgotten how to pump gas and the only maintenance I have is tire rotations and brake pad changes.