A lot of what you said resonated with me. I'm the same age as you, and I do feel that pressure to make impressive quilts. I think part of that pressure comes from within, I push myself to keep getting better. The other part is feeling that if a quilt isn't super complicated then it doesn't have worth. I struggle with wanting to prove myself too. To me, quilting isn't just a hobby, it's an expression of caring and my artistic expression too.
I do think simple can be just as pretty as complicated. Some of the quilts I have enjoyed making the most are really simple. I think all quilters have gifts in different areas, and the fact we make something with so much love and thought is what makes it special. :-)