I never went hungry but had my first clothes that were not hand-me-downs when I was 17.
People say "work" and yeah, kinda, but there's a lot of people and companies.. and universities!... that work with that principle and will screw you over on your blind willingness to do more than the average guy.
So I'd say the best thing is the "invisible life". Making independence your priority. Work the 2-3 lowkey jobs that will make you look like a broke guy who's not going anywhere in life, but will quietly build up your savings...which you can invest..rinse and repeat. Don't waste money on booze, if you're young your body can go with the same meal every day for a long time, clothes are not important if belonging to society is not your goal. Not much motivational pathos I'm afraid *shrug*