This. I'm not going to tell you what to do with your time and money but busting boxes is rarely worth the risk and you're rarely going to get the hit you want.
But like others said, mow lawns, shovel driveways, maybe a paper route, etc.
I echo this sentiment.
Mow lawns and wash cars in spring, summer, and fall. Rake leaves in the fall. Shovel snow in the winter. Learn to do these things well and you'll get lots of people asking you to do it. Work hard and efficiently.
Don't be suckered in by the hits you see on youtube. Usually people don't post the dead boxes they open.
Also, busting boxes is expensive. It's better to save your money to buy the cards you want. I know it's not as exciting as pulling that card, but the odds of that happening is quite slim.
Do some research on the cards you want too. You may be a bit young, but ebay can be helpful in letting you know what the going rates are. Or post here and good members will usually help you out.
Another thing, because you're young, do your research and find some good guys here to help you out (or your parents or older sibling). There are always people out there who are more than willing to take your hard earned money and rip you off. Like selling you an ungraded Crosby YG for $400 when you can get it for $300 here or ebay. Same with the value of the cards that you have for trade.
Collect the players you like. But when they're hot, you're going to pay a fortune for them. So if you can be patient, the prices usually come down.
Deal with reputable people/sellers/stores only, especially with expensive cards. Doesn't hurt to do a reference check.
You can start by trading with people who live in the same city as you. But make sure you check the cards before completing the deal. Stick with collector's with a good rep. There are some good collectors here that live in Chilliwack.
