This is what one of my professor´s told me when I told him that I wanted to change my career path:
Count yourself among the fortunate ones that have found a meaningful purpose to exist. Most people live their lives in clockwork, not spending a moment to question why they are doing what they are doing and where it is taking them.
So my advice is, go for it and do not think twice about it. It is better to pursue something that you like rather than get stuck in clockwork doing something that you don’t.
I spent 3 years getting my Bachelors, 1 year on a Masters degree, 4 years on a PhD, plus 7 years pursuing academic research. At 37, I have decided that I want to study Medicine without a doubt in my mind. So here I am, taking A-level exams with 17/18 year olds. Does it matter though? Not to me personally, simply because I am too focused on achieving my goals.
If you want to change your direction, the first step is to eliminate any doubts that might hold you back. Don't care about what people tell you, just focus on what you want. Once you have taken care of this, the next step is to find out what you need to do and make it happen.
I remember starting with a to-do list and then one-by-one, I ticked off the items.
I'm now 1 step away from getting a place in medical school. I'm sure you can do the same, whatever it is that you will ultimately choose to do.