Late bloomers who made a comeback from rock bottom, how did you do it?

I know HNers are mostly people who lean on the right end of the IQ spectrum. And exposed to and dabbled in tech/science/finance very young or just able to learn it crazy fast.

I think i am at best, of average intellect with no special skills (hopefully things will change going forward) and although i am trying to get better, it is slow and hard. I hope to be a late bloomer rather than someone who never bloomed and would love to hear your stories about how you overcame your personal challenges.