Job: Illustrator (Canada)

Don't know if I should be giving advice, was more looking for some. I have had ideas for careers over the years, searched the schooling, salaries, and loans necessary. I've also had job offers that could produce a more than sufficient income for the future. But, I've held off in hopes of actually making a great living doing the thing I love to do as oppose to working to live. I think true success will come from loving your work. I would love to be a prosperous illustrator for books, cd covers, posters, etc.