This is one of the reasons I use schroot + debootstrap. Got a Debian chroot and a Ubuntu chroot so that I can manhandle them rough installing PPAs and packages and stuff, without seriously endangering my main install.

Don’t tell me what to do. It’s my system, I’ll break it if I want!

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.

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

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.