I tell people who ask if they should pursue a career in music, "Not if you can imagine doing anything else."  Though the chances of making a living as a musician have increased, the chances of being a major success may be smaller than ever, and the journey even to moderate success is going to be long and often painful.  Keri Smith blogs about being an artist, and while she's a illustrator, her pain is much the same. Original published in her Artist Survival Kit, Keri's insights hold equally true for musicians:

       How to Feel Miserable As An Artist

      (or, what not to do, underline and that currently apply)

1. Constantly compare yourself to other artists.
2. Talk to your family about what you do and expect them to cheer you on.
3. Base the success of your entire career on one project.
4. Stick with what you know.
5. Undervalue your expertise.
6. Let money dictate what you do.
7. Bow to societal pressures.
8. Only do work that your family would love.
9. Do whatever the client/customer/gallery owner/patron/investor asks.
10. Set unachievable/overwhelming goals.  To be accomplished by tomorrow.

 photo above via Flickr by Alaskan Dude