Fly for fun, not for a paycheck, man. For now, go pick up a copy of Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki (sp?). It explores concepts on how to be financially free.

I had tunnel vision when I was 16 about wanting to fly for a career--had ZERO interest in business, real estate and the like. I sure wish I had this book (or something similar) when I was 16, because I sure wouldn't have gotten into this silly business.

I submit that if you could somehow quantify the work one does to get one's ratings, instruct, network, go to a regional, upgrade--only to sit reserve with no quality of life, then MAYBE get on at a major--only to sit reserve again, and equate that amount of work to researching, learning, and getting active in real estate, economics, etc., you would be financially free by age 30 and you could buy your own airplane.

Those 25 year olds you see getting on at Southwest and other majors are rarities, not the norm.

I truly respect those that say they have no regrets in life--but I regret getting into this goofy business. It was an eye-opening mistake. Thus, I'm learning new ways to get the hell out.

The very best of luck to you in whatever you wish to do.