Hey Greg - I'm sorry you're finding it challengin - sounds like you're stuck in a loop of need a job to fund the things you want.

You are centering your existence on a job - i KNOW money does help us forward in some ways but as you live with your folks and arecontributing towards bills...why not think of another way to live rather than the 'standard' set by society?

As you are in that mindset so heavily that a job = good life you will probably wonder what the hell i am talking about! But be patient - expand your desires some more - you want your own place - so that could be a place you build from materials which cost nothing or next to nothing (heard of 'earthships' - well worth a google) Know anyone who has loads of land? Place an advert to form a venture to build such a place...which you volunteer to steer and run to educate others?
Grow/farm your own food on that land...once set-up.

There ARE ways to get the things you wish for without going th conventional route of needing huge sums of money. For instance - during such a venture to get involved in some kind of 'eco village' as a volunteer...you may meet the girl of your dreams...she may already have a place...you never know what paths open up once you make just one step.

Being at your parents convinced the ONLY way forward is to earn earn and earn - well in this climate of very few jobs being offered...i can see you sitting there a long time unless you open your parameters of possibilities.

I feel for you and you sound like you're a resourceful chap - if a more 'live off the land' lifestyle is for you feel free to email me @ [email protected] for info on ways to start in that lifestyle.
If not, fair enough but i think my advice still stands that thinking 'wider' will help opportunities come into your life.

Good luck :-)

p.s they say life BEGINS at 40 so don't go mulling about your age!! heheee