Professional Chefs

Hi, been out of culinary school for not too long, but long enough that I should be progressing, but I don't feel like I am, at least not much. Feeling like I'm at an impasse and can't move forward without some help, hoping you can offer some insight.

1. I've had a string of unsuccessful jobs, I just can't seem to fall into a really good opportunity despite the red hot market for cooks. By good opportunity I mean a job where I feel like I am really learning, progressing, and contributing to something great.

2. Am I too old? I am close to 40, I know they say it's never too late but perhaps there is another pathway I need to look at considering my age, it really does seem to be a young person's business.

3. Am I too much of a bureaucrat? I went the university route and excelled academically, but felt drawn to food, so pursued and completed the culinary training, but perhaps I am just not "hands on" enough to really be good in the kitchen.

4. Is the universe telling me this is...