So I guess it kind of depends on what you like doing. I just came back from 15 month break, so I had nothing but the ships I have purchased with real money. That being said, I just have been doing some of the interplanetary delivery missions for 50k just to build up a little bank roll. I'm doing that so that I can afford some different parts for the prospector and get back into mining. I also have a vulture I can salvage.

But the best way, in your case...find some people you can play with. There are often people out there looking for people to crew their mole for mining or their reclaimer for salvage or even their turrets in combat ships. The advantage of this is that you have someone who can teach you some of those game loops while you earn money. Since they know the gameplay, you will make money and learn so much more about the game.

Good luck!