I was 40-years old and had already worked over 10 years in software and headed development at 2 of the 10 largest software companies (at the time) in the U.S., before I started my first company.

It didn't hurt that I'd already been an officer in the army before I got into software development.

Patience is a virtue. It is hard to be negative and build a good reputation at the same time.

I wish you good luck in your quest.