I didn't read the OPs question like "woe is me" at all. I've been in their shoes. Feeling isolated, having doubts despite my optimistic nature, lacking sources

I didn't read the OPs question like "woe is me" at all. I've been in their shoes. Feeling isolated, having doubts despite my optimistic nature, lacking sources of good advice. I'm sure it's a familiar story for many HNers. I wasn't born knowing Paul Graham or the Church of Lean. I didn't always live in a city rife with smart people building startups. It's a slow, steady process of learning, adjusting, and learning again. That the OP is here asking questions and seeking advice shows me they're on the right path.