The noble path does win but only if you are prepared to make the investment over a long period of time.

Professionals have to decide on which subjects they are prepared to give nagging rights

You cannot and should not try to please everyone. Make sure that the right people like you, and it will be expected that others will not. That's how the world works.

No one can manage you if you don't give them permission to do so. But if you are interested in accomplishing as much as you are capable of, then I believe there are good reasons to grant that permission.

When did you feel most fulfilled? When did you impress yourself, or otherwise feel most proud of yourself?

What do I have to do to earn and deserve the key relationships that are going to get me where I want to go?

I will accept your influence, guidance and direction if (and only if) I believe that you and I share similar goals.