Don’t seek to emulate other writers. Don’t pay heed to how others say your tales should be written. And don’t ever change your writing on account of anything or anyone. Your stories are your own, so write them your way.
I think that a true writer will keep on writing, no matter what. Even if they don’t get published, even if they’re constantly faced with criticism… they’ll keep writing. The act is essential to a writer’s existence. Without it, life would have no meaning.
I don't believe there's ever been a 'good' first draft, but there's a reason for that: they don’t have to be. First drafts are part of the process; they're the rough diamond on their way to being cut and polished. It takes a while to get them to shine.