Yo, that potrait is fire man. Really good values. I didn't even notice what @snakker said initially when I saw the drawing, but looking back I now see the changes. Well that and the hair in the bun xD.
To a point I think it's natural to end up being dependent around validation when we first get some appreciation in social media. Others see our art, they like it, we feel good about it, get some dopamine, and it can become addictive. Most of us have been there and needed to adjust correspondingly.
I still think it's important to share online or with others, since comments like what @snakker did for this potrait helps us notice errors we hadn't notice before and helps us improve. I strongly believe it's beneficial to be part of an art community to continue growing and just interacting with other fellow artists can be motivating. While at the same time, as you said, it should not be our main motivation factor, otherwise it does become toxic. As with everything in life, there has to be a blance to it.
Take your time, we all have different ways of going at it, you just need to find what works for you, but I do believe this is a great step in the right direction. To be able to self-analyze, be sincere with yourself and look for a better way to go at things, now that you did it this time I think you'll be doing it more, and be better for it.
It reminds me of a good quote:
All that said, it does still feel good to recieve a pat in the back and know you're doing well, so keep at it mate, you're doing great! Cheers!
