In a quest to fit in, many crave meaning and live a meaningless life instead. Like you mentioned our loved ones add true meaning to our lives - not the “attention of fake” friends.
Also, the realization of what is our true self will make us freer - with a better capacity to enjoy - the here and now.

As everyone is uniquely different- discovering what is meaningful happens at their own pace. There is no judgement, as we all need a starting point.

As you mentioned, it’s comforting when inner peace is achieved, goals change and one can simply be.
!PAKX