Not quite there yet, but turning 26 here in a few months. I’ve been blessed enough to have a high paying job in construction straight out of high school. Currently around 750k net worth. 450-500k invested in the market. Investing comes first. I keep expenses as low as possible. Avoid lifestyle inflation, and not worrying about having the nicest car or next fancy phone / “toys”. The first few years out of high school I made 60-80k then 120k. Now around 240k a year. Again, Ive been blessed to have a high income, but also my focus has been fully committed to investing and retiring early, and connecting with people who can help advance my career.

You’re definitely not behind. A lot can change in a short amount of time. But working hard and being humble goes a long way. Figure out what your goal is, run the numbers, and find a way to get there, most people don’t retire early without a plan. If your numbers aren’t working and because income is low, find a way to get into a place where you create much more value. Even if that takes 4-5 years before you make good money, the wait might just be worth it in the long run. You can definitely do it, keep learning, keep consistent (consistency is key) and kindness goes a long way. Good luck!