There's a reason they call our industry show "Business" and not show "ART". (paraphrasing Miss Piggy)

It's always been a business to me, no booze, no long breaks, top gear, always stayed current, and relevant to my demographic ... I play for the house. I've seen so many talented musicians loose their foothold because of "artistic" choices, but the ones who kept paying the bills knew that it was so much more than a "gig"
(that's why I rarely use the word) This is my calling. My profession, and my vocation.
I never wanted big lights, boats, fancy cars, or summer homes. I just wanted to use my skills to make music that makes people happy. (me included)
I truly believe that you can shape your own destiny ... if you're willing to work for it.

The "nuts" and "crazies" that we encounter are part of the cost of doing business. We've all got things about our jobs that we don't love, but in my case ... the positives far outweigh the negatives. I change with the times, I adapt, and I push on. In 2 more years, I'll take my social security, and that'll ease up some of the need to chase that almighty dollar. I never intend to retire, but I wouldn't mind slowing down just a bit an about 10 years. I'm not a snow-bird candidate (I'd miss fall and winter too much,) so I will stay put, and keep the tunes coming till I can do it no longer. Then, I'll make another adjustment for whatever the circumstances suggest. It's always been that way as an independent contractor. Working for yourself has it's privileges ... as long as you and the boss agree.

When I taught school, I was very careful to encourage my students to follow their passion. I nurtured them, but I challenged them, too.If I thought they had a real shot at the biz, I told them so. I've offered real world advice based on the talent, and drive I saw in each of them. My teachers did the same for me in high school, so I think it's my duty to pass it on.
I get very defensive when people dismiss my chosen business as less than adequate, or sufficient. There's nothing else I'd rather do, and I'm pretty sure many, many people in the "real world" work force cannot say the same. Most nights, I can't wait to get to work, and that feeling has been strong in my heart since my first "gig" (yes, back then it was) in 1969. Fifty years on the job, and still loving it ... sounds like a career to me.
If I ever put the money ahead of the job ... someone please SAVE ME!