Don't read up on Gauss ;)

I'm just shy of 31 and I have to say when I look back 23-24 was the peak of feeling like I was "too old" to accomplish anything meaningful.

I think one of the hardest things for me to see at 24 was just how non-linear and strange life is, and likewise how truly meaningless it is to try to establish a useful system of measurement and comparison between individuals.

For what life advice from a stranger on HN is worth: Get out of the game of comparing yourself to others as fast as you can. Focus on what you think is interesting, and also take a few moments now and again to really appreciate the wonder that is life. Aside from being happier, you'll most likely accomplish more if you don't spend energy casting yourself in the shadows of others.