I'm 31 and don't know what to do for a career...

[dixiegrrrrl]

3. You would be surprised at how people "found" their careers

and even more surprised at how many people have a path of many careers.
It is actually very rare that people "always knew" what they wanted to be, and even more rare that they stuck with it for 50 years or so. Most people fell into their life's work, and/or changed careers down the road of their life.
So thinking " I am going to be doing this job/work/career the rest of my life" is not necessarily accurate.

Let's tackle the "too old" thing first.
How old will you be in 10 years if you don't go to college?
Assuming college is the right thing for you right now.

Another secret is that humans don't have a set age for being "grown up", and it isn't until 30 or 40 that we start putting our experiences together enough to realize WHAT we really want. That's why you hear of so many "mid life crisis's".
If you think in terms of what you want to do for the rest of your life, it can be overwhelming.
If you think in terms of what you really would like to do for the next 5 years, it is much less daunting.

You would be surprised, I think, to learn how many people excel at their "hobby" and have rather mundane jobs just to support
their real passion. Like photography, or travel writing.
( My brother wanted to be an actor, never made it, got a 9 to 5 job and stumbled into being a book narrator, is now making enough money he can quit his 9-5 job. He is 50 + years old)

Another thought....do you know how much plumbers and electricians get paid?
LOTS.
They are always in demand, too. Even the stupid ones. Imagine how much a smart one charges!
There are millions of people who want to 'work with their minds" all competing for the same jobs.
But what this economy is going to need is people who can keep things running.
check out this article:
We Need a Fixer (Not Just a Maker) Movement
http://www.wired.com/opinion/2013/06/qq_thompson/

wishing you luck...