SkyScratcher,
You have a very sensible view of the industry, that's good to start with... can't have too much common sense - ever!
I can assure you many will find themselves in the same situation as you are, however many are blinded by the incredible thought of walking down the terminal surrounded by hosties and working a little for a lot of money.
Truth is, that even during the early stages of your PPL, you will have to work hard, and this is not gonna change anytime after that. The studying and refreshing does not stop after you are done with training. There's always a prof check coming up, or new technologies to get familiar with - as in any profession it is hard work to stay ahead.
I am sure you (and any trainee can agree with that I hope) will go through a lot of dissappointment and set-backs while being in training, and also if flying for a living later. There's always people who try to rip you off or make things miserable, but then again this happens in any industry.
The key is: Do something you feel is WORTH it! Get into a job you want with all your heart, and then work as hard as you can and hold onto it.
If you need inspiration or simply a good read, a fellow ppruner has written two VERY good threads a long time ago, but these are still top!
http://www.pprune.org/interviews-job...-my-story.html
http://www.pprune.org/interviews-job...-day-life.html
Whatever you do, be passionate about it!
