You set your own value. If you compare yourself to your peers, you set up a value system. If you choose to go by your mother’s words, that is also a value you set for yourself. Obviously, you aren’t very happy with the value system you have for yourself because deep down, you know you are worth more. Stop comparing yourself to others. Think of things to be grateful for often. Journal about your gratitudes if that helps or you can pray or meditate about it. Spend time with positive people. Positivity can be contagious! Make lists of things you like about you or things that you enjoy and make you laugh or smile. Set a goal and instead of worrying whether this goal is your purpose, let the goal change over time and let it change you. Adapt to whatever comes along. All of this takes time, but it’s all doable! 🙂
Personally, I find Patanjali’s yoga sutras and Mollyecue’s Buddha Doodles to be very positive and inspiring daily! However, this may not be what makes you smile and feel at peace, but I am sure there is something for you with exploration. Explore and enjoy, but don’t frustrate yourself with endless search because there’s always something to be happy about in the present. Even people living in the trash dumps of India can smile, so there is no reason you can’t.