They can because they want to. You can live your entire life void of purpose or you can live your entire life filled with purpose. They both produce the same results at the end which end up being nothing. It's your reaction to the pursuit or lack thereof that produces the desired life you seek. Don't be afraid to be lazy and don't be afraid to be active. Ultimately no one can make you pursue anything, although they can persuade.
What is it you are actually asking? Seems like you want knowledge, wisdom, career, relationship, and spirituality with a clear direction on how to obtain them all at once.
The extreme end of asceticism and materialism might both leave you with a longing for the opposite lifestyle. Why not enjoy having running water and a toilet while aiming to reduce your overhead so you can begin or continue to live life as you please?