Following your own ideas and instincts is how we create genuine confidence and craft in our work. True satisfaction is achieved by liberating ourselves from desiring the approval of others. While others might triumphantly social climb into various inner rings, it’s only from pursuing our own path that we find lasting fulfillment.
Until you are able to act in concert with what you believe, you will be unsatisfied.
Chasing the approval of others by acting on their beliefs is a salt-water drink that does not satisfy.
The only lasting and fulfilling acceptance comes from within yourself.