It's funny to see that everyone goes through the same stages.
I'm a bit of an obsessive when I find something I like, so although I've only been into it for a little over a year properly I've gone through most of those stages.
Pretty much skipped HDR
Still get the occasional lust for gear
Bought myself a film camera, never used it
Bit fed up with Flickr
Currently do the odd bit of paid work and I'm now asking friends to help me build up a portfolio (couples, people with kids etc) with the intention of becoming a sole trader, so I guess that counts as practice. If I go into it as a job it'll be on my own terms though (at least I hope it will).
Biggest drawback is a complete lack of confidence.