Hi guys!
glad to see I'm not the only one thinking aviation exists beyond airlines as a career choice.
The problem is that usually smaller operators don't offer the same stability and lifestyle that airline flying does.
Nevertheless... if you are fond of instructing, at least as far as I know, the turning point seems to be the "IRI". Once you get "IRI" and CRI ratings pay gets better and especially it's a bit easier to find decent paying jobs, at least in Europe. Apart from money you will log interesting IFR and ME time which could lead you to different kinds of flying, if you are interested.
I enjoy instructing and as I can't afford (or take up the risk, as you might want to see it) of a SSTR I'm leaned towards working my way up instructing, so I can make a living out of it, and eventually, if the opportunity arises, get to fly something different.
In the end might not be very lucrative, but I enjoyed instructing way more than flipping burgers and off-loading trucks.
But please if you instruct, by all means be professional and supportive with students. Hate to see "logbook junkies".
Cheers / Pablo