Stories about people who positively change their life around. And achieve something starting from nothing.
Stories about people who positively change their life around. And achieve something starting from nothing.
Try my series Climbing the Ladder
Rags to riches. Can be read without reading the other series in the same universe.
The Millionaire Next Door by Lazlo Zalezac
https://storiesonline.net/library/storyInfo.php?id=54088
Well, I had one like that a few years ago, and in it the gal overcame multiple issues including drug addiction.
https://storiesonline.net/s/22822/valley-girl
But it sounds more like you are looking for a rags to riches type of story.
The Dragon's Backbone by Oz Ozzie
A young girl who is an addict finds love, magic and redemption in a wilderness adventure.
Stupid Boy by G Younger Starts as a exiled to his Uncles farm stoner pudgy nerd boy.
Of course
The Goatherd by FantasyLover
In "The Goatherd" his life isn't changed around as much as it is given focus and direction. He is allowed to take things as they come, but always with guidance and direction from his father, mothers, and later, wives.
I'm toting my own horn here, but try on this one for size:
https://storiesonline.net/s/70129/one-gold-eagle
That definitely meets the criteria, and to my mind is a classic reverse example of a 'for want of a nail' story.