Comparing myself to those who’ve already made it
My back story is I’ve been singing country music since I was a kid and then recorded in Nashville when I was 18 as well as performing countless shows throughout my life. My mom was the one who got me into music. She was my biggest fan, mentor and encouragement throughout my life and career. She started having health issues 15 years ago and I started being her caretaker and never leaving home so I could care about her full time. Honestly I just kind of gave up perusing music and writing songs. My mom wanted me to keep going with my music when she was around but I just could not focus on myself and her health at the same time. My mom passed away 7-31-25. I’ve been devastated, lonely, depressed, anxious and I’m grieving the fact I did not pursue and put more into my music so she could witness my progress and success.
So now I’m in my mid 30s and I really want to clear my mind and put all my grit and focus into performing and songwriting again because I don’t want to give up anymore and fail myself. But now I’m seeing so many country music artists that are in their 20s and early 30s who are blowing up the charts and it kind of makes me feel old or like it’s too late. But then I see Chris Stapleton and Jellyroll who made it in their 30s so I think there’s hope to begin again.
I just am tired of giving up and all the excuses. I want to know I can start over even at 36.
Should I stop comparing myself to these other new artists? Isn’t comparison the thief of joy?
Am I overthinking my age?
I just have been going through a lot of emotional grief and need some assurance from someone.