A lot of non-commercial aviators enjoy the challenge of pursuing the next goal. In your case after gaining a PPL, maybe go for an instrument rating and then consider an instructors ticket. That way your flying always has a purpose and a goal, which is far more satisfying. Unless you are a lottery winner or a Russian crime lord, who has to wade through banknotes every morning to get to the swimming pool, you will find turning hard earned cash into aviation fuel fumes is somewhat disheartening, unless you are truly enjoying it. By all means go for the occasional $100 hamburger, and share your enjoyment with others from time to time, but just boring holes through the sky for the sake of it will soon dampen your enthusiasm for aviation.
This advice of course applies equally to fixed wing or rotary, but yes, join a club and mix with other aviators. Shared knowledge and experience is great for learning and can literally be a lifesaver.