I think a lot of people believe in the idea of an afterlife because it helps justify all the injustice and inaction in their lives. It helps them make peace with the fact that they might lack money, power, a cooler car, whatever with the promise of a sweet afterlife. It also helps dull their senses and their existence. If you believe there is no definite end, you don't feel as bad about wasting your time here.
I don't think we trust others to treat us well (or as they themselves would be treated). Probably because, deep down, we don't trust ourselves to do this, either. Hence the crooked system of this world.
And to answer the initial question, I think I agree with you. You have to set goals and have things very clear in your head - you really want to do something, then there must be no barriers, if you pretty much know where the limit is and what is too much, too great a price for you, then it's not really worth doing.
And might I just say, I really liked this -
not working to get into some type of after death club that is dependent on the hoops jumped through in life.
You have hit on many points of truth there.
The hypocrisy of the mind is incredible.
Ugh yes, it might look to be a lil bit harsh from my part and it's no pointed to any particular promises regards beliefs.
BUT...