This importance will only become real with experience. It might be easy sometimes and difficult at other times. Remember, you are ever-evolving, so what you thought you were may not be the same today. You can be different with different people and vice versa. Do not judge others on the basis of a third party's experience. Experience people for yourself; they might be different for you. But learn from other people's experiences and try to avoid fallacies. If you have been honest with your intentions and actions, do not worry about what other people share about you.
Remember, there is a thin line between confidence and arrogance. Never muddle the two. It is important that you are truly aware of yourself, accept yourself, and are growing at your pace.
Remember, no matter what you do, it will be rare that all constituencies involved will be happy with you. People will perceive you according to their own interpretation and judgment. You do not/need not/choose not to be bound by it. If you are comfortable with who you are, do not be afraid to show the world what you bring to the table.
Do not wait for others' approval. However, do not isolate yourself from society. Balance is important. Have a dialogue, listen to others, reflect on yourself, plan, and decide what is best within the given context without compromising who you are.
Remember, all have their own backstory that is not visible. Allow people to create their own stories as you would like to create yours. It is important to see how you see yourself. What do you see when you see you? Do you like what you are becoming?