How did you got into characters?

I hope to start a discussion between one who did and who are thinking about transitioning from strictly lettering to also characters. Cartoony, Abstract, Traditional, Realistic doesn't matter.

Where do you see it's standing in street art in general? Where/With/Ehy what did you start? Was at a natural progression for you? When did you incorporate them? Did you learn that it just wasn't your thing? What where some surprises you encountered? What can you recommend on someone that wants to go there?