I think there is an element of the “grass is greener here”, of course you could have taken his path and enjoyed it, but if it helps I’m one data point that did

I think there is an element of the “grass is greener here”, of course you could have taken his path and enjoyed it, but if it helps I’m one data point that did take the management opportunity early and didn’t enjoy it. I pivoted to project management where I can be closer to the action without having the tedious line manager duties and I enjoy it much more. Perhaps instead of looking back is there a way to look forward… in your current path what’s ahead and does it excite you. If not, what other careers would interest you (which aren’t this path that you wish you took). You may find yet another path that is even better if you expand your thinking.