Motherfucker… I’ve learned all of these the hard way over my first decade with Linux - 2005-2015. Would’ve been nice to have read this. 😂

Don’t suffer from Shiny New Stuff Syndrome

Gold.

Alternatively, intentionally loosen the precautions, at least at first, seeing how the system ticks. Then, when things start getting unstable, make a new clean install of the system and do it all over again, but with the previous issues already in mind so you can avoid them.

Iirc there’s a saying that only those who fall know how to stand up. If you can afford the time investment, it’s a golden opportunity to learn.

Good advice on installing foreign packages to Debian, and how to keep it functional and secure.