The criticism by those closest to you are not about you

When people criticize the ways you express your freedom and autonomy, they are telling you that they are fearful. Criticism masks projection by the parts of them that are fearful of being judged, being seen, or of making unpopular decisions. Their parts protect by keeping them small, risk-averse, and limited.

It's not about you, it's about fear...projection... and maybe a little envy.