You seem like you have a very good attitude, and at that a realistic one. Expect the worst, and hope for the best.

To quote my man Toby Keith, "I won't break my back for a million bucks I can't take to my grave" You only live once, and if you had a successful career outside of aviation and can afford to take a pay cut I'd say give it a try. For some people making just enough to stay out of debt while traveling the world on someone else's dime could make all the sense in the world

NOTE TO THE READER- (I am still working on my ratings, and have 0 experience actually flying for money so take all advice I give with a grain of salt)