The answer depends very much on what kind of decisions you make in your youth. If you plan well and make good choices the second half of life can be much, much better. As a middle aged person I am much more secure with myself now, I have higher self esteem, and more inner strength. Because I worked hard in my youth, now I have a rewarding career, a wonderful husband and a beautiful home. I look forward to spending my retirement years traveling with my life-mate, gardening, making art and writing books.
Youth was fun, but also full of turmoil and difficulty. If you play your cards right, the second half of life will be balanced, peaceful and rewarding.