A few things …

Here’s a few things I think are worth considering.

1 - What is the goal ? Do you want to be a commercial success in the same world as Drake / Billie Eilish / Bieber / Rodrigo etc ?
Alright. Well …. strap yourself in cos’ that’s a world where you need a lot of elements to line up. Business is business and this place … the place where money and “stars” are being made is similar to the stock exchange. Songs and artists are seen more as commodities and the bigger companies do not play.

2 - If you want the artistic experience, the hands on music side then you’re looking at subsidiaries, small, medium and boutique labels. They still have bottom lines but typically entertain artistic “conversation” more. Limited runs, respect and a bicycle. I’ve lived in both worlds and prefer this world. I get to play music and create more.
Every so often one goes over the fence and you advance.
Feels that much sweeter.

3 - The world gets smaller and smaller. Travel ! Go out into the world and listen to radio in other territories, talk to A&R reps in other territories and check out as many gigs as is possible in other territories. I did that (still do this) and it changed me. I understood and appreciated more styles of music and the people who made the music.

4 - Know your own heart. Know what you love and what you don’t love. Know what sounds you love, what fashion you love, what videos you love, what live shows/presentation you love and when you’re around business folk be that consummate artist. A&R and business people in general do not want to talk to or hang with someone who goes on endlessly about business and marketing. They want to hang with someone who is in the grip of and who serves: art, performance, attitude and talent.
Doesn’t really matter what your attitude is saying (clearly within reason) business people just want to see that you’re ignited and driven.

5 - Put your mixed and mastered songs in a playlist with your heroes. If you’re bummed when your tune comes on don’t make excuses … make a better recording.

6 - If you can go days without playing an instrument (and you’re not depressed or ill) then it’s time to move on. You should feel like they’re always calling your name.

7 - If you enjoy it do it. If not … don’t.