What does it take to become a professional musician?

We often attribute career success to fate or destiny, like being in the right place at the right time or just being lucky. In fact we are the architects of our future career as musicians. This is a process which takes time and is developed over years. There are no shortcuts.

The question is: what does it take to become a professional musician? We all know that hard work and talent are essential. This is true, but a career in this field requires also other important qualities like: passion, motivation, flexibility, creativity, self-discipline, enthusiasm, perseverence, networking skills etc. 

And still, I belive that the most important quality is to love music, to make it every day and to be dedicated 100% for it! This is not a complete answer to the question, is just a way to see the things from my perspective. I`m looking forward to see Your Ideas and Sugestions on this topic!