Inspiring story. I think many Creatives have similar experiences. It is frustrating when those closest to you are not supportive or dismissive of your choices. I think you have correctly identified the source though — they are framing through their own lens of experience which does not match yours. Your family is sure to be very proud of you although they may not express themselves clearly… And frankly, leaving a 9–5 job is not such a huge disaster — it will be so much worse if you are unhappy and always thinking “what if?”. You have the option to go back anytime. I have bounced back and forwards between gig work and 9–5 all my life. Each experience enhances the other — there is no right or wrong way to go about having a career! The one thing for sure is that the “future of work” is changing. Your skills and experience is the type that can not be replaced by robotics, automation or AI, so you are making a good investment right now. A great story!