Are the hours as bad as everyone says? Is it as unsocial as everyone says? And are professional kitchens still a bit of a testosterone boys club? I.e. quite intimidating

I usually spend most of my week nights and weekends cooking different dishes for my girlfriend and also for myself when I'm bored. I love it. I love everything about cooking.

As a result I'm seriously considering doing a cooking course or maybe even a NVQ and a really going for it.

Is it a worry to do something professionally that you love as a hobby. It could have the potential to ruin that enjoyment.

I'm basically looking for some advice from someone in the know!