Good for you, self improvement is always important and you have realized that while you are still young which is fantastic. Just remember, that in life there will be ebbs and flows, it is not a straight forward path and no one person will travel it the same as another. So try not to compare your situation to your friends, you aren't behind, you are on your own unique path. Keep that mindset you have, hold yourself accountable, and continue to try to be a better person every day, and you can't fail.