One thing I have noticed from talking to those that have been in the biz for 25-30 years is that a lot have something going on the side to pad their wallets and protect themselves from a nasty industry. Some examples of people I know: Importing rare cars from overseas for customers, realestate agent (maybe not so good anymore), sim instuctor for another company, aircraft detail business, and personally I have a small photography.
What I'm saying is that our schedules allow us to diversify our talents and split our eggs between a couple different baskets. Even in a down economy there is money to be made.

Oh and I've always been a fan of flat rates based on aircraft seats. If you're qualified you're qualified and you get paid for the job you are doing.