actually, it's been almost 10 years since I started taking commissions! I'd say I started taking them from relatively early on so there were a few times I made some mistakes but nothing major that would have left anyone without being properly compensated, thankfully. I had time to learn different things, from marketing strats to proper communication skills and things to do to avoid burnout for myself. I definitely don't think it's for everyone and I've tried to help friends in the past who just ended up not feeling it or felt it was too challenging for them. which is valid, especially if your time to draw for yourself is already limited, or you're not feeling quite there yet skill-wise. clear artist-client communication is especially important or you will lose customer trust! same for on-time delivery, you'll need to figure out a rough time estimate to give to them so they won't be left waiting for you for months. ofc that won't be apparent to you immediately at first. just definitely don't make them wait months or a year with no contact...
I wanted to add - !
the reason for that is most often heavy workload and then embarrassment and feeling overwhelmed, so artists choose the easy path and just go offline, essentially scamming their customers. you NEED to take your time and work seriously. try only taking a few commissions at a time and put the rest on a waitllist. I definitely don't advise anyone to take money upfront unless they for 100% know they will go through with it, which newbies most likely can't say for sure. it's just a friendly warning, cause I've seen it happen too often!