I used to be in the "I'd fly for FREE!" crowd right up until my first month as a Beech 1900 FO.
Then I thought it would be a lot easier when I upgraded to captain...
Or easier when I got hired by a major!
Maybe it would be easier once I got off the panel and into the FO seat!
Well, maybe when I go to an EFIS/FMS aircraft!
Almost ten years later, I still enjoy my job, but I surely wouldn't do it for extraodinarily less money.
It's hard, challenging work and don't let anyone tell you any different: Sometimes the challenges come from inclement weather, other times it comes from horrendous passenger problems, mechanical glitches, personality conflicts with other crewmembers or mega irregular operations.
Look for my book which I'll probably try and publish in 2030 when I'm safe during retirement!