So yeah, environment/upbringing/schooling could have a huge impact it seems. At least if you believe that skills like this can be kept 'in shape' with frequent use (which I do believe).

Anyways, for people who feel down about their age, remember that nothing anybody does will last forever. Our judgment of significance is significantly colored by our finite sense of time. Just think of what seemed like a long time to you at 3 vs at 30. Thus, it is ok to primarily aim at happiness in this life instead of achievement, though aiming at achievement is also good if it makes you happy.