tl;dr How do I manage to maintain a focused, calm and content state of being without outside influence?
I feel like my mind is highly susceptible to my environment. May be even more so than other people. I was an introvert my entire life and was fine not talking to anyone for long periods of time, but that started to change in recent years and now I need constant social validation and positive messages in order to have a good day. I don't necessarily have to hear "you're smart", etc, but just having a fun or spontaneous conversation is necessary to keep my mind calm and relaxed. Is there any way to cut this dependency? I realize the human being is a social animal but this feels like a very strict dependency. If I can't cut the dependency, then at least a method to diminish it would be nice. If I'm not in a good mood I can't work, be creative or feel good at all during the day. Before anyone says it, sure, exercise helps, but it's not enough.