Many people allow their need for other people's approval to control their lives. Rick Warren

Many people allow their need for other people's approval to control their lives. They spend their lives worrying about what others think of them.
- Rick Warren

Do not look for approval except for the consciousness of doing your best.
- Andrew Carnegie

One of the natural, but unfortunate, human characteristics is the sense of a need for approval. It is wonderful to show your appreciation of others and to thank them whenever possible. It is also pleasing when others show appreciation and thank you. But making any significant life choices based on whether or not others approve sets one on a course of emotional destruction.

Make your important choices in life based on your values and your long-term objectives rather than on a need for approval.

Further reading: Stand Tall, Stand Proud.