I think I realize why I was so bored with this game and I made a tough decision

I have some rules when I play ACNL.
1. I only buy unobtainables in TBT
2. I don't mind about where villagers set their houses (or who they are). I'm the mayor, I have to deal with it and organize the best I can my town.
3. I don't pick up anything gives me in the island. I have some friends who play and they've tried to give me hacked stuff. I will never pick things up unless I catch them or obtain them myself.
4. I will never hack the game.
5. Even if it takes me a decade, I will do everything by my own hand.

And the game has been so satisfying so far because of those I've had my fossil's wing completed for a while and I'm on my way to complete the art's wing. (bugs and fishes is like... 50% xD) so yeah... You are on the right track, my friend

I'm glad you feel like you've made the right decision! I feel much the same, even with bug farming on the island, it makes things a little too easy for my taste. I've been trying to do this new town without it. I have gotten villagers from other people though!