Don't focus on pleasing critics or your peers
Paraphrasing what I once read: Don’t focus on pleasing the critics; focus on the average person who is likely to be filled with wonder and inspired to do their own work by seeing yours.
I’d add to that “your peers” as well, because there’s often the urge to compete with others in your field. But when it comes to design and especially art, is there really a need to compare?
Speaking in terms of web design, one of the things that I have fundamentally changed about how I used to design a website and how I design now is the shift to practicality. I design for the average person rather than critics or peers (other designers).
Sure, if the website design was going to be submitted to Awwwards, or I’m experimenting with something (or I just have a client with a big budget who wants it), then I have no problem going all out with flair. But for most websites it’s not really necessary.
Simple and functional website designs are better for probably 99% of the world.
Designing for the average person (who is, in many cases, a customer) and for accessibility is going to benefit the business/org much more than a fancy page.
In art terms, it should be a reflection of you as an individual, and so it doesn’t make much sense to even feel the need to “show off”. Let your work speak for itself and don’t feel the need to please critics or your peers.
The average person will be baffled by your work and they are your true audience; the people you really want to touch and inspire with your art.
So, focus on creating for the glory of Yahweh and for the joy of the average person, not your professional peers or critics.