I agree with Winterglen. First off, how many of us, at eighteen, REALLY knew what we wanted out of life? Most of us haven't even lived out on our own at that age, much less have had some sort of career.

I think that the vast majority of people aren't in love with their job, but tolerate it because it pays the bills. Very few people will have that "dream" career, that is, being able to make money doing something they love and don't consider work. At thirty-five, you are in the unique position to have plenty of life experience and maturity that these kids straight out of high school don't have.

Don't be too hard on yourself, OP.