I have learned the hard way, lets face it that is pretty much how I learn everything ever...... If you feel lost like so many people do at certain stages of their lives try setting some goals. Could be big like start a business or buying a home or could be as simple as remember to get out of bed after the second snooze round on the alarm. Seriously set some goals and tell no one, keep it quiet and clap for your damn self! People don't always like to see others doing well and some get pretty nasty, but they can't get nasty if they don't know your next move can they? Think about it, people run away to get married and no one can stop them. Granted it's not always the best idea but never the less it was their goal and they did it.
I am not saying run away or kill anyone, nothing crazy but set a goal that makes you a better you and Nike that thing!! No one can take accomplishments away once you achieve them so don't let negative people goal block you! Every time someone cuts you down create a goal and smash it, think of it like ying and yang... Balance it out and don't let the negative junk in!!!