Striving to make others happy

I know that I’m seeking my parents constant approval and trying to make it right by them. I can only assume it’s because of the constant criticism. I feel the more I try the less happy I am. My brother has asked me a few years back, why can’t I just let it go what they say and do my thing. I don’t know how!

My husband though told me today that my parents are the way the are and I need to work on myself not to let their dissatisfaction bother me. But what does that mean? Am I not confident enough, do I distanced myself ?