Great question. Drawing is just like any other job at the same time, not??
Drawing is a bit harder considering the labor and required skill and talent, and when you get the job, you’ll get small pay bc we don’t need art as much as we need medicine or machines, etc. But in my view, I think you just have to use your acquired skills wisely. Like, make a business, make stuff and sell them, draw for a client, etc. Artistry isn’t just for one path like you’re going to draw your whole life and just earn however you can. Nope.
Artistry can be useful in many ways, creativity or ideas are what people look for. If you really notice, everything you see is created by design. Art. you’d barely see anything that’s being sold without a creative design right? Bc if not, no one will buy them xD
When I said it’s just the same as any other job, it’s the same amount of ways when you try to earn money and stressing and living off as you do the same like any other job. No job is easy. We all need to work hard.
It’s natural though, to have a reputation as an artist. People think it’s fun so they think having a serious job like being an attorney or an entrepreneur will get you money, and not that fun coloring and doodling. Lmao no. I work as an illustrator, I’m paying my own bills and also investing for a house and for my insurances, I proved it to my family and family friends that had expected me to be an emo hipster artist (just bc I draw) that I can live off with what I love to do.
But an advice is, just practice professionalism. Keep learning new techniques, use them for your job, manage your time, stay healthy and don’t forget about your friends and fam. And work hard, no quiting.
EDIT: tip on the artist part, where we can’t do anything about it bc we can only draw when we’re on the mood. Please let go of that pride. No one will pay you for your mood. If you have art block then tend to your weaknesses. Watch movies, go to the park, pet your dog, turn on the music, eat, talk to someone. anything that will set your groove. Be flexible.