But frankly, if riches and fame provide the framework of your life's goal, I'd suggest singing lessons. Or, take a crack at professional sports. And the payment reflects this. And of course, this includes folks whose last names are King and Krantz and Rice, who sort of skewer the curve. I say lucky because if you're in this for the written word, the love of that translates into a plethora of areas.
Many accomplished authors are editors as well.
Many work for magazines, or they freelance articles and stories to such periodicals. Which means that in the meantime, you gotta eat. Often writers ask me about freelancing for magazines, which is a great business. Not only does it pay well as you go, but once your book does get published, those stories and articles you continue to sell help publicize both you as a writer, and the book coming out. Do know, of course, that writing for magazines is pretty much of a career unto itself.