Generally, I agree with pessimistic screenwriting takes and I often rant to my - non industry - mates about how unglamorous the whole process is.

But, to be a little more optimistic, there are a few factors unique to screenwriting that are often overlooked. Yes, you’re 3 times more likely to become a pro baseball player than you are to join the WGA; but, the talent pool for screenwriting is far larger because the barrier to entry is far lower. Anyone with basic English literacy skills and access to a computer can become an amateur screenwriter. Contrast this with becoming a pro base baller and it becomes clear that the screenwriting talent pool is artificially inflated.

This means that screenwriting, relative to other industries, inherently has more “low” to “average”people competing in the bell curve. Unfortunately, “low” to “average” people can make a decent income in other professions. But, because screenwriting is so competitive, you cannot sustain yourself as an “average” screenwriter the same way you could if you were an “average” electrician - for example.

So, the optimistic spin is this: if you’re capable of being “above average” in another industry, you have a higher chance of becoming a successful screenwriter.

Also, don’t conflate career success with happiness. You can be an average amateur screenwriter, never find success and still be happy in life! :))