Think of those lost years as a reminder of your duty to yourself to pursue your dreams. Let it empower you and drive you.
I dropped out of high school and the truth around 17, and because of my JW upbringing i wasn't prepared to deal with the real world. I had a nervous breakdown. I did meaningless jobs and tried to get "back in the truth" but for the most part was very depressed. I had no support nor belief in myself. Since everything was supposed to be about "bringing glory to God's name" there was no time to really think about what I WANTED out of life. And with nothing but pathetic JW social skills to boot, i was screwed.
So, i slowly began the process of rebuilding myself. I went to college. Got a job at Microsoft. Started taking acting classes at a community college. Learn to speak Russian. I'm now doing theatre work and independent films, including directing my own (www.mcbeerbong.com).
I've found my passion in life at the ripe old age of 27. Which is late for some, but in all reality, it's never to late to take back your life. I wish i could've been an athlete, specifically a football player. Since i'm a little too old for that, I just bodybuild. It works for me.
If you still feel sorry for yourself, think of the poor sons-of-bitches still stuck going to meetings.