I keep what I do to myself. My self-worth doesn't depend on my family's approval, or anyone else's for that matter. As long as my wife stands by my side, I know I'm headed in the right direction.

Anyway, I see you're new to the forum. Welcome, and have fun learning your way around. You'll do fine.

Don't worry about negative people. They're usually just scared, confused or jealous. Or all three. Learn to take into account the context of the situation. That means observing the current circumstances of athe people saying these things.

I learned the hard way a long time ago to ignore the unsolicited "advice" of others. Most of them just don't want you to succeed (whether they realize that or not). Worthwhile advice is hard to come by because the people who are warranted in giving it are successful, busy people.