Originally Posted by HeavyDriver
You know what I like about flying for a profession?..It's not a job...It's a lifestyle. I do have a source of other income though, so maybe I'm bias. BUT. When I see all those fools going to go work in bumper to bumper traffic...A day in a cubical from 9 to 5 doesn't appeal to me at all. If your looking for cash...Go into business for yourself...If your looking for a great lifestyle...Go fly for a living...I have found in my 20 years as an Airline Pilot that you'll find those who love it and those who don't. Those who love it seem to do very well in the job and seem to have successful endeavors outside of aviation also...Those who don't most likely will complain about everything anyway. I've worked Line service, Washing Airplanes, Corporate, Regional, and I still made it to the Left Seat of a DC-10 before I was 30 years old. Why?...I busted my butt to get what I wanted and not by listening to those who would never make it in a profession that wasn't for them in the first place...Good luck and Good Night.
A lot of success in aviation depends upon luck and circumstances. I am sure that even you would concede that your results are not typical by a long shot. In addition much depends upon what you are willing to lay upon the alter of aviation as a sacrifice. In order to enjoy your levels of success most would have to accept a single life with out many friends, wives, children or family contacts, and perhaps to throw financial security to the winds as well. I know many successful airline captains with brilliant careers who totally missed out on the best opportunities for a happy life outside of the flight deck. In the end life is a balance, there is a price for everything and an opportunity cost as well. Everyone needs to consider what they are willing to loose in trade.
SkyHigh