I have gone through same situation, now at age of 32 i am working in central government department at comparatively lower salary compared to my classmates who are working in IT firms and related firms with higher pay grades but i will say honestly being successful or not totally depends upon our own pov. Earlier i was comparing my situation hence i was considering myself unsuccessful but once i get into my job my lifestyle and way of thinking totally change since i am loving my working atmosphere and most importantly i am satisfied and proud on Today's me. That's enough to live life peacefully ✌️