This is a very bizarre story.
Not everyone has the inclination to develop connections, nor should they.
Not everyone is motivated by more "practical" careers.
The truth is if she had a chance to repeat her life, she'd probably still choose to pursue her literary dreams.
She made the decision multiple times in her life to focus on other things besides connections or going for some "practical" career. She knew there would be different opportunities/costs regardless of the direction she chose.
It doesn't make a whole lot of sense to suddenly feel bitter regret about this. That's just hypocritical.