These thoughts can be crushing, and I would not be where I am now if I hadn't had help along the way. My main source of support has come from brave artists who soldiered on regardless of their inner critic, and then wrote books to encourage the rest of us.
These books gave meaning to my life when it seemed aimless and empty. They guided me towards a deeply personal and exiting path, kept me from straying from what I most love to do, and encouraged me to share my work with others. If you have not read them, I recommend you do. They will be great allies along your way.