JJ,
I am towards my late 20s now and currently doing my atpl. Me too, thinking whether I be able to compete with the guys much younger than me and we will end up the same licence(s) (fatpl). In my opinion, u have to think what i got that these guy havent got i.e. higher education, experiences etc. You have to believe yourself that you can do it. There is a probability that i may end up with a job or no job, but at least i know the outcome.
no risk no dream
hope it helps
n.dave