How are you going to begin your music career?

Well first off, I have to make sure i have some material such as lyrics, the music im going to write too, and a studio. After I have all that, I wanted to create a 3-4 track demo, a cd cover and supply my own case and cds. Then after that is all done, I want to perform small shows like open mics, charity events, festistals, and etc to build my fan base and while that is going on, I want to have merchandise such as shirts,posters, or/and demos. That is how i am going to start off as an independent musician. How are you going to start off?