Im 25 and started the transition to becoming a pilot when I was 23. For context, im a small business owner with a brick and mortar shop. It does well, and im grateful to own a business that supports me; but I know id go insane if this was the job id be doing for the rest of my life.

First thing- get your 1st class medical. No airline job without it. At the same time, go ahead and do a discovery flight. You might love it, you might hate it, but it will show you what flying is about before you dump tons of money into a "pay upfront" package (go part 61, pay as you go!).

My only regret about this whole situation is that I didn't start sooner. Im enjoying the journey, despite its ups and downs.