It wasn't a waste of time if it taught you something. Just because what you once really wanted changed, ended, or didn't work out doesn't mean you're behind now or that you should've necessarily "known better." You needed to go through what you did in order to gain the skills, wisdom, and clarity that you have today. A perfect, predictable life in which everything goes your way is not only unrealistic, but it's not always where the next iteration of you will thrive. So, trust the rejections, redirections, and detours. Acknowledge the valuable lessons you learned. You are right on track. It's usually when things seem to be falling apart that they're actually starting to come together in your highest favor.