Affiliate Marketing Secrets

I ask this because I am a super motivated individual who isn’t willing to settle for the casual 9-5 or doesn’t want to acquire wealth through retirement…So many people say the key to get rich is to save, invest or get a 6figure job…all of which takes a considerable amount of time…(I don’t want to be old and just starting to enjoy life, but while I am young and can appreciate it more)…
I want to know from people who are wealthy themselves or who are rich…Obviously, rich/wealthy people are financially educated and thus think differently, have different social crowds and know how to protect themselves when it comes to making $$$…in today’s economy, I would want to know what fields should I look into, what connections or people should I get acquainted with…what tools and resources I would need…I am a 24year old black male from NYC and would like to be financially independent before I hit 30…its not impossible (I have met tons of people in NYC who are in their youth with long pockets so I know its possible)…please only respond if you are going to shed some serious light…
I have read books (Rich Dad Poor Dad, attended seminars and read PDF’s) and even started my own PC Repair Business (which has failed misearbly)…I guess what I am asking is on the road to wealth, is it better to start a business, invest or maybe try another avenue (most common folk) would not normally try or know to exist…?
Side Note*, it seems everyday a new music artist is born, sports player is signed, a doctor is made (and their all wealthy)etc…there is so much wealth in this country and only the top 1% have access to it, I just want to find my niche and get a piece of that…Thanks for your time and for reading this…