The biggest pitfalls for ordinary people right now—things that seem good in the short term but are likely to be bad in the long run.

First is taking civil service exams, starting preparations in freshman year, and not giving up until you succeed. But once you pass, your luck might run out soon after. Except if you have connections in high places.

Second is going all-in with loans to buy county or city properties. In the short term, you get your own home; in the long term, you're burdened with others' debt and negative assets.

Third is franchising or starting a business. It has basically become a game of mutual exploitation.