These days I do not make photographs for the approval of other people and don't give a hoot what anyone may think of them as they are made purely for my own satisfaction.
Yes indeed, I make them solely for my own pleasure and benefit as a form of escapism, as part of my having fun, as a way of being present in the moment, of staying connected to places that are important to me, of exploring new ones and in the feeling of achievement gained from striving to master my craft.
If other people happen to view my photos and appreciate them, well that's fine I guess but they were not created with that intent in mind. It is is equally fine if they don't like them too, I am genuinely indifferent to other people's opinions. Approbation or disapprobation of my work by anyone other than myself is not its purpose.
Photography helps keep my head on straight, keeping me well balanced, keeping me engaged with the world and the places I care about thus contributing a lot to my sense of wellbeing.
Finally, best of all, I do it because photography is fun. That's all I've got to say about that.