Discouraged

Its been really hard for me lately as a photographer. It is honestly a passion of mine, but I've been feeling so inadequate about it for the past few weeks. For one: I know the economy sucks and no one wants to pay for photography, for two: its difficult when you have so many other friends who are photographers as well, for three: photography is an expensive business, and I have no money (nor am I making any), to improve my skills, whether it be in jobs or buying new equipment. I know I'm young with little experience, but I do have some. I've been quite discouraged and at points, about ready to give up on it all, and I hate feeling that way. I have been blessed with a gift and who am I to trash it? I just need something to boost my confidence.