I admire the people here, starting at older age and still have the drive to find that first job. I was also like that 13 years ago. But things has changed. Somehow as a prof. pilot you also see the otherside of the medal, novelty wears off. What i find the hardest part of the job is that you always have to be flexible to move away to another base, abroad, away from home.
Me, i dont have a family,nor children nor girlfriend. Some say it is a blessing for this job. Well I can assure you, it is not! If you are based abroad, (commuting is not always possible) away from friends, all alone on your apartment on your off days or coming back from your duty in an empty house, no one to talk to......i find it really hard and after all these years, i still can not get used to it. Than that flying job is not that important anymore.
So my advice: be careful what you wish for. If you can do some freelance flying close at home. Take it and enjoy.