Both.
Hard to understand react without some knowledge of jQuery.
Also make sure you have a really good understanding of vanilla javascript.
There is no free lunch (Unfortunately)
It is more difficult than OOP because of its strong association with mathematics (ie category theory and logic). Without this background knowledge it becomes like a magic black box with monads, monoids, applicatives..etc etc
Look at the spiritual side of things. What does it mean to be happy. Who defines success, you or your peers. How long does it last?
I can really relate your feelings about women, been there done that. Am now married with two kids and looking back at things I was totally wrong in the assumption that a drop dead gorgeous person would make you happy.
You see, happiness comes from within and is not defined by things like jobs, partners, things you own. If I could choose a religion for you it would be Buddhism, follow the steps and happiness is guaranteed.