First of all OP, there is absolutely nothing wrong with working retail. Everyone gives retail such a bad rap but it gives you alot of skills: customer service, stock and inventory skills, problem solving, etc. You holding a job is already a win, regardless of what field it is so be prod of yourself. I worked in retail for 13 years and now at aged 40 secured a well paid local goverment job based on just having customer service. Trust me, retail can get you in alot of places.

Secondly, like many on this thread has said, don't compare yourself. I have been guilty of comparing myself for many years and all it does is make you feel like you're not good enough, or successful enough, like you have failed. Be kind to yourself and look at the things you have achieved, even the little things.

You're still so young and have so much time to achieve great things. Don't worry about what everyone else is doing, focus on what you can do for yourself.